Following U.S. aid cuts, the Nigerian government has announced it intends to absorb around 28,000 health workers previously supported by USAID into the public payroll.

Date: 11/25

Region: Africa

Country: Nigeria

Topic: Health, Gender Equality & Inclusion

Policy Lens: Global Health Security

Entry Type: Secondary Effect

Additional Context: Nigeria has lost more global health assistance compared to other recipient countries at upwards of $400 million. The announcement appeared alongside a government increase of $200 million for the 2025 health budget in February 2025.

Devex Researcher Note: Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding, or MoU, signed with the U.S. in December 2025, includes a pledge of $3 billion from the Nigerian government in co-investment through 2030. Nigerian contributions are expected to fund, among other services, staffing and workforce training. "Only [staff] formally recognized within government structures" is set to participate in MoU-outlined transitions. According to local news sources, "concerns have emerged regarding pay disparities, as affected health workers may face salary reductions once fully integrated into the national system."

Source: MSI