Unlocking fiscal space for reproductive health in Nigeria: A rapid assessment

Matthew Cummins

Abstract

Nigeria continues to face a persistent reproductive health (RH) financing gap despite decades of policy commitments. This rapid fiscal space analysis evaluates how the country can expand investment in RH services while maintaining macro-fiscal stability. Six domains were examined at the federal level: budget reprioritization, improvements in health sector efficiency, revenue enhancement, official development assistance, debt restructuring, and innovative financing mechanisms. The findings indicate that reallocating public expenditures, reducing inefficiencies, and introducing modest tax reforms could mobilise significant additional resources for RH by 2030. Strategic borrowing and blended finance instruments could further complement domestic funding. Realising these opportunities will depend on sustained political leadership, transparent and accountable budget execution, and stronger coordination across government and development partners. Implemented collectively, these measures provide a credible pathway to closing Nigeria’s RH financing gap and advancing the country’s demographic dividend.

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