Nigeria, U.S. strengthen defence health partnership
In a pivotal step to enhance Defence Health Services and solidify the partnership between Nigeria and the United States, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, met with a U.S. delegation led by Dr. David Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health.
The meeting, as disclosed in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations, focused on fortifying existing collaborations in defence health. Notable outcomes of past cooperation include the establishment of high-tech laboratories in Nigeria, and Dr. Matawalle urged the expansion of such facilities beyond Abuja and Lagos to underserved regions.
“A healthy military is the backbone of a strong nation,” Dr. Matawalle stated, emphasizing the critical role of integrated health services in ensuring the welfare and readiness of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
He called for increased defence budget allocations to health, highlighting it as an essential investment in national security and stability.
The Minister further noted that these efforts align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to enhance healthcare for both military personnel and the broader civilian population.
By addressing public health challenges that overlap with military readiness, the administration aims to strengthen Nigeria’s overall security framework.
Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, echoed this sentiment, stating that the collaboration would serve as a model for improving Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“This initiative marks a turning point for Nigeria’s defence health system,” he said.
Dr. Smith lauded Nigeria’s commitment to advancing health readiness, describing it as fundamental to military effectiveness.
“Health is as crucial as any weapon system in ensuring military success, and we are committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its defence health system,” he remarked.
The U.S. delegation’s visit also underscores a broader mission to sustain progress against HIV and accelerate efforts towards the United Nations’ 95-95-95 goals, aiming to eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030.
This renewed partnership signals a robust future for Nigeria’s defence health system and its role in achieving broader national and international health goals.
