The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into strategic agreements with international healthcare companies to bolster access to quality healthcare and enhance the nation’s medical capacity.
This milestone was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mr. Alaba Balogun. The agreements were signed with Siemens Healthineers’ Nigerian partner, Tanit Medical Engineering, and Abbott Laboratories GmbH.
Focus on Public-Private Partnerships
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC). The initiative seeks to improve healthcare delivery through robust public-private collaborations, fostering innovation, and enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem.
Key highlights of the partnerships include:
- Local assembly of ultrasound systems.
- Advanced medical training for Nigerian professionals.
- Increased self-sufficiency within the national healthcare system.
- Access to locally manufactured, high-quality diagnostic solutions.
Reducing Import Dependency
Dr. Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator of PVAC, represented the Federal Government in signing the agreements, alongside the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate. Mukhtar emphasized that these agreements aim to reduce reliance on imports while improving local access to cutting-edge medical devices.
“This collaboration aligns with our vision to transform healthcare in Nigeria, improving access and outcomes while unlocking the potential of the healthcare value chain,” Mukhtar stated.
Government Commitment and Investor Incentives
Prof. Pate commended the PVAC team for successfully attracting international investment to Nigeria’s health sector. He also outlined the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives through Executive Orders that provide incentives for health sector investors.
Partner Commitments to Nigeria’s Healthcare
Dr. Kevin Massoudi, Vice President and Head of Public Sector Engagement for Siemens Healthineers in the Middle East and Africa, reaffirmed Siemens’ dedication to advancing diagnostic services in Nigeria. He praised the country’s leadership in health innovation and highlighted its potential to drive progress across Africa.
Similarly, Dr. Rabah El Menshawy, Vice President of EMEA and Global Accounts at Abbott Laboratories GmbH, lauded President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership. He described the partnership as pivotal to ensuring Nigerians have access to locally produced, high-quality diagnostic solutions.
“Our collaboration also aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to end HIV infections by 2030, contributing to health equity and empowering Nigerians to lead healthier lives,” El Menshawy added.
A Vision for a Healthier Future
These partnerships mark a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to build a resilient healthcare system. By leveraging international expertise and local resources, the Federal Government aims to improve healthcare delivery, empower medical professionals, and ensure equitable access to life-saving solutions for all Nigerians.
