In a significant move to bolster Defence Health Services, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle MON, met with a U.S. delegation led by Dr. David Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health. The meeting, which took place on Friday, December 20, 2024, focused on enhancing the existing collaboration in defence health between the two nations.

The Honourable Minister commended the U.S. for their efforts in establishing high-tech laboratories in Nigeria and urged for the expansion of these medical facilities beyond Abuja and Lagos to reach more deserving regions. Dr. Matawalle emphasized the strategic integration of health services to improve the welfare of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, stating, “A healthy military is the backbone of a strong nation.”

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that military personnel have access to top-tier healthcare services and facilities. He called for an increase in the defence budget allocated to health, viewing it as a vital investment in the nation’s future and stability.

The U.S. delegation’s visit to Nigeria is aimed at advancing initiatives to sustain progress against HIV, accelerate efforts towards the United Nations’ 95-95-95 goals, and work towards the elimination of HIV as a public health threat by 2030. The partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. is expected to have a positive impact on military health and serve as a model for strengthening Nigeria’s overall healthcare system.

According to Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, “This collaboration marks a turning point for Nigeria’s defence health system.” Dr. Smith praised the Minister for his proactive approach to health readiness, underscoring the critical connection between health systems and military effectiveness.

The partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. is a significant step towards enhancing military readiness and addressing public health challenges that affect both service members and the civilian population. As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration continues to prioritize healthcare as a cornerstone of national security, the collaboration is expected to yield positive results for the country’s defence health system.

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