posted 8th February 2025
Abuja, Nigeria — In a striking contrast to global leaders like the Israeli Prime Minister and the Brazilian President, who recently underwent medical procedures within their own countries, Nigerian presidents continue to seek medical treatment abroad despite the staggering sums allocated annually to the Presidential Clinic in Abuja.
Over the past four years, Nigeria has earmarked substantial budgets for the Presidential Clinic:
2020: ₦416.6 million
2021: ₦1.06 billion
2022: ₦20.8 billion
2023: ₦393.66 million
In 2022, an eye-popping ₦20.8 billion was allocated specifically for the construction and equipping of a 14-bed Presidential Clinic, designed to cater to the healthcare needs of the President, Vice President, and other top government officials. By March of the same year, the Federal Government had disbursed ₦10.06 billion to fast-track the development of the clinic's VIP wing. Further funding of ₦393.66 million was proposed in 2023 to continue its development.
Despite these massive investments, Nigerian presidents, including Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu, have consistently opted for medical treatment abroad—Buhari frequently in the UK and Tinubu in France. This practice not only raises questions about the quality and functionality of the Presidential Clinic but also about the accountability of public funds dedicated to its development.
The paradox deepens with revelations from Aisha Buhari, the wife of the former president, who publicly disclosed that the clinic lacked even basic medical supplies, including syringes. This shocking admission casts a spotlight on the apparent disconnect between the colossal budgetary allocations and the actual state of the clinic's facilities.
Why, despite billions of naira spent, is the Presidential Clinic not meeting its intended purpose? This question continues to puzzle Nigerians, stirring public outcry and demands for transparency. The situation reflects broader concerns about governance, accountability, and the prioritisation of public resources in Nigeria.
As Nigerian leaders continue to rely on foreign healthcare systems, the fate of the Presidential Clinic remains a glaring symbol of mismanagement and unmet promises. It stands as a testament to the urgent need for reforms that will not only ensure the clinic's functionality but also restore public confidence in the nation's healthcare infrastructure.
