By Sandra Chukwunyere
In a landmark effort to enhance defence health services, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, MON, met with a United States delegation led by Dr. David Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health.
The meeting, held in Abuja, focused on strengthening the partnership between both nations in defence health and expanding access to advanced medical facilities across Nigeria.
The collaboration has already resulted in the establishment of high-tech laboratories in the country, primarily in Abuja and Lagos. Dr. Matawalle lauded these efforts and advocated for the expansion of such facilities to underserved regions, ensuring broader access to quality healthcare for military personnel and the civilian population.
“A healthy military is the backbone of a strong nation,” Dr. Matawalle stated, emphasizing the importance of integrating robust health services into Nigeria’s defence strategy. He called for an increase in the defence health budget, describing it as an essential investment in national stability and future prosperity.
The Minister also underscored the administration’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improving healthcare for military personnel and civilians alike. He highlighted the strategic importance of addressing public health challenges, noting that healthcare is pivotal to national security and military readiness.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, asserting that the collaboration with the U.S. would serve as a model for strengthening Nigeria’s overall healthcare system. “This marks a turning point for Nigeria’s defence health system,” he stated.
Dr. Smith commended the Nigerian government for prioritizing health readiness within the military framework, stressing the connection between effective health systems and military success. “Health is as crucial as any weapon system in ensuring military effectiveness, and we are committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its defence health system,” he said.
The U.S. delegation also highlighted its ongoing efforts in Nigeria to combat HIV, accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ 95-95-95 targets, and eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030.
This strengthened partnership reflects a shared vision for improved military welfare, national security, and public health outcomes, solidifying the ties between Nigeria and the United States.
