GOVERNMENT HEALTH EXPENDITURE AND LIFE EXPECTANCY IN NIGERIA EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study has examined the nexus between government health finance and life expectancy in Nigeria. The study employs unit root test to determine the stationary state of the variables with the aid of Augmented Dickey-Fuller Test. It also employs the vectorauto regressive model (VAR) statistical technique to determine the dynamic relationship between the endogenous and exogenous variables. The findings emanating from the study indicate government recurrent expenditure on health engenders life expectancy. Premised on this, it is therefore recommended that the government of Nigeria should on yearly basis set aside greater proportion in the budget for health sector given that health persons (citizens) economy implies economy. Grants should be extended to medical practitioners for further training such that they can readily compete with their international counterparts.