The House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Malaria, HIV/AIDS, and Tuberculosis issued a stern ultimatum to the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom.
The officials were given 72 hours to appear before the committee to address allegations of misappropriating $300 million designated for malaria funding since 2021.
The chairman of the committee, Amobi Godwin Ogah, conveyed the committee’s frustration at the persistent absence of the Permanent Secretary, warning of potential consequences should she fail to honour the summons. Ogah emphasised the urgency of the matter, given the escalating threat of malaria in Nigeria and the government’s commitment to eradicating the disease by 2030.
The committee’s resolve stemmed from concerns raised by a petition submitted by Seasons Law Firm on behalf of Rosies Textile Mills Limited. The petition accused the Ministry of Health and the Permanent Secretary of obstructing indigenous manufacturers from participating in the procurement of insecticidal nets and related products.
Ogah highlighted the significant financial resources allocated to malaria control, including a $100 million loan from the Islamic Bank and an additional $200 million from the World Bank in 2021. Despite the emphasis on prioritising local content in procurement processes, the ministry allegedly contracted the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) at considerable cost, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
In attendance at the event were other government officials, including Senator Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Economic Planning), Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim (Youth Development), and Nkiruka Onyejeocha (Minister of State for Labour and Employment).
The National Assembly’s intervention underscores its commitment to safeguarding public funds and ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources.
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await the forthcoming explanation from the Minister and Permanent Secretary, anticipating a resolution that prioritises the welfare of Nigerians affected by malaria.
