Health Policy Plus (HP+) is a five-year project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development and implemented by a consortium of partners, led by Palladium. HP+ provides technical assistance to governments, civil society, and the private sector to effectively engage in domestic resource mobilization, establish sustainable financing and accountability mechanisms, and make progress toward expanding health coverage.
On 3rd May, 2019, Osun State (one of HP+ supported states in Nigeria) became the first state in the country to begin enrolment of clients for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). This national milestone was witnessed by key stakeholders in Nigeria. Find below, images and voices from the national roll-out of the BHCPF in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.
Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole: "We call the BHCPF, Huwe, meaning life. We believe that through this program, there will be life for all Nigerians. Through this program, money will come directly to this facility for the first time in the history of our country. In the process, Osun State stands to benefit about 916 million naira in the next nine months. We have set up a robust accountability mechanism to ensure compliance."
Osun State governor, Gboyega Oyetola: "We shall ensure effective implementation of the BHCPF. These are : (a) antenatal care, child delivery care and free immunization for pregnant women; (b) free immunization for children, treatment for malaria, measles, pneumonia, dysentery and malnutrition for children below five years; (c) free family planning services, and screening for diabetes and hypertension for all adults."
HP+ Nigeria Country Director, Onoriode Ezire: “We at HP+ are excited to be here. Congrats to Osun State, you’re not just the first but the only state in Nigeria that piloted BHCPF. You did it for three months. The learning from the pilot will be influencing what is happening, moving forward. We hope that beyond the launch, access will be improved and this will continue to address maternal and infant mortality in the state.”
