Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has assured that the country can take care of its healthcare system, even without the support of the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
This statement comes after USAID’s exit, following controversy surrounding the agency. Elon Musk, head of President Donald Trump’s newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), criticized USAID, calling it corrupt and harmful.
In addition, US Congressman Scott Perry accused the agency of funding terrorist groups and misusing funds, including spending $136 million to build 120 schools in Pakistan.
Speaking to Channels Television on Friday, Minister Pate stressed that Nigeria must learn to survive with its own resources.
“We may be a poor country, but we are a capable country, and we are determined to own up to that responsibility,” he said.
He added that while Nigeria would appreciate any support from others, the country would not beg for it. Instead, the government is committed to working within its available resources to improve healthcare services.
This statement highlights Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in healthcare and development, regardless of foreign aid availability.