The National Assembly Joint Committee on Health in Nigeria has called for take-off grants to support newly established hospitals. This appeal was made by the committee Chairman, Senator Ipalibo Banigo, during the submission of the harmonized report on the 2026 budget proposals concerning various health ministries and agencies. The call for these grants comes amid ongoing discussions on budget allocations that directly affect the operational capacity of healthcare facilities in the country.

Senator Banigo emphasized the importance of these financial provisions, stating that the take-off grants are crucial for addressing the immediate operational needs of newly established hospitals. The support is intended to facilitate the effective and efficient operation of hospital services, especially in light of the country's ongoing healthcare challenges. Without such funding, the potential of these medical institutions to serve the public could be severely undermined.

The hospitals highlighted in the appeal include several key federal teaching hospitals located in different states, such as Lafia in Nasarawa State and Akure in Ondo State, as well as the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Otukpo, Benue State. The establishment of these hospitals represents a significant step in expanding healthcare access in Nigeria, but this growth must be supported through adequate financial resources to fulfill their intended purpose of improving health outcomes for the populace.