By President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the release of N6.45 billion for the setting up of gas plants in 38 locations across the country.
This decision, according to reports, is a part of his administration’s efforts to enhance the treatment of COVID-19 patients who need oxygen.
The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, disclosed this development, at the virtual meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the presidential villa, Abuja, on Thursday.
According to the minister, the president’s approval of the release of the funds was necessitated by the increased number of patients who need oxygen due to the surge in COVID-19 infections in the country largely due to the second wave of the pandemic.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, stated that the president approved the sum of N55.1 billion in 2018 and that 50 per cent of the sum has since been released to the states and the FCT.
He further explained that this followed the president’s decision to activate the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund according to the provisions of the National Health Act.
