Ogun Earmarks N11.4bn for Health in 2024 Budget

In a significant move to bolster healthcare infrastructure and services, the Ogun State Ministry of Health has allocated a substantial budget of N11.410 billion for the upcoming fiscal year, emphasizing a commitment to improving the well-being of its residents.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, disclosed this information during the on-going budget defence at the Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The breakdown of the budget reveals a strategic allocation of funds, with N9.1 billion earmarked for capital projects and N2.213 billion allocated for recurrent expenditure.

The ministry has set an ambitious revenue target of N135.3 million for the next fiscal year.

Dr. Coker provided insight into the specific initiatives outlined in the budget proposal.

Notably, N300.6 million is allocated for the construction of ten ambulance points strategically positioned across the five health zones.

These ambulance points are expected to enhance emergency response capabilities, ensuring swift and effective medical assistance.

Furthermore, a substantial investment of N3.89 billion is dedicated to the construction of additional hostel blocks, comprising 150 rooms each, for the schools of Nursing and Midwifery situated at Ilaro, Ijebu-Ode, and Idi-Aba.

Additionally, funds would be allocated for the construction of extra classrooms at the state College of Nursing in Abeokuta, Ijebu, and Ilaro.

These infrastructural developments aim to enhance educational facilities and support the training of healthcare professionals.

In a related development, Dr. Olayinka Elemide, the Permanent Secretary of the state Hospital Management Board, affirmed the board’s commitment to effective management of health facilities.

The board plans to achieve this through the rehabilitation of existing hospitals across the three Senatorial Districts of the state.

Moreover, there are plans to expand community Mental Health Centres and establish three dental centres equipped with additional dental laboratories.

Dr. Elemide outlined the board’s comprehensive budget proposal of N12.707 billion, with N4.315 billion allocated for recurrent expenditure and the remaining N8.392 billion dedicated to capital projects.

The board also anticipates generating revenue amounting to N400 million, reflecting a multifaceted approach to address healthcare needs in the state.

The ambitious budget allocation underscores Ogun State’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare, aiming to not only enhance medical facilities and services but also contribute to an overall improvement in the health and welThe unveiled initiatives signal a proactive stance towards addressing healthcare challenges and fostering a healthier future for the people of Ogun State.