The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has stressed the need for strategic integration of health services to improve the welfare of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Mr Matawalle stated this when he met with David Smith, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health, who led a delegation on a courtesy visit to him in Abuja.

Henshaw Ogubike, the ministry’s spokesman, stated this on Friday in Abuja.

The minister noted that a healthy military “is the backbone of a strong nation” and reiterated the Nigerian 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.

Mr Matawalle, while commending the U.S. for the existing collaboration and partnership with Nigeria on defence health, urged expanding medical facilities beyond Abuja and Lagos.

He said the request aligned with Nigeria’s broader commitment to enhancing military readiness while addressing public health challenges affecting service members and the civilian population.

He also emphasised that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was dedicated to improving healthcare for military personnel and civilians, recognising healthcare as a cornerstone of national security.

Similarly, the permanent secretary in the ministry, Ibrahim Kana, noted that the initiative would positively impact military health and serve as a model for strengthening Nigeria’s overall healthcare system.

“This collaboration will mark a turning point for Nigeria’s defence health system,” Mr Kana said.

Earlier, Mr Smith commended the minister for his proactive approach to health readiness, underscoring the critical connection between health systems and military effectiveness.

According to him, 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.

“The U.S. delegation is in Nigeria to further advance initiatives aimed at sustaining progress against HIV, accelerating efforts towards the United Nations’ 95-95-95 goals, and working towards the elimination of HIV as a public health threat by 2030,” he said.

(NAN)