Ministry Of Defence, US Strengthen Defence Healthcare Partnership

The Nigerian Ministry of Defence announced a significant step forward in enhancing military healthcare services, following a productive meeting between the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and a US delegation led by Dr. David Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health.

The meeting focused on expanding the existing collaboration between the two nations, building on previous successes such as the establishment of advanced medical laboratories in Nigeria.

Matawalle expressed gratitude for US support and advocated for extending these facilities beyond Abuja and Lagos to underserved areas, emphasizing the critical link between a healthy military and national strength.

He stressed the need for a significant increase in the defence budget allocated to healthcare, viewing it as a crucial investment in national security and stability.

The Minister highlighted the strategic importance of integrating robust health services into military operations, noting that a healthy military is essential for a strong nation.

This initiative, he explained, is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader commitment to improving healthcare for both military personnel and the civilian population, recognising healthcare as a fundamental pillar of national security.

Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stating that this collaboration represents a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s defence health system and could serve as a model for nationwide healthcare improvements.

Dr. Smith praised Matawalle’s proactive approach, highlighting the inextricable link between effective healthcare and military readiness.

He reaffirmed the US commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to bolster its defence health system, underscoring that health is as vital as any military asset.

The US delegation’s visit to Nigeria is part of a broader initiative to combat HIV/AIDS, aiming to achieve the UN’s 95-95-95 targets and eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030.

This collaboration further strengthens the strategic partnership between the US and Nigeria, extending beyond military cooperation to address critical public health challenges.