FG, foreign partners sign agreement to improve healthcare

The Federal Government has signed two Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Siemens Healthineers, its Nigerian partner Tanit Medical Engineering, and Abbott Laboratories GmbH, aimed at enhancing healthcare access and high-quality diagnostic solutions in Nigeria.

The National Coordinator of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), Dr. Abdu Mukhtar signed the agreement on behalf of the federal government’s, with the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate in attendance.

In his remarks, Pate explained that the partnerships aim to boost the assembly of ultrasound systems, improve medical training for Nigerian professionals, enhance the self-sufficiency of the national healthcare system, and guarantee access to high-quality locally produced diagnostic solutions.

The Minister commented Dr. Mukhtar and his team for their determination to attract investors to Nigeria and underscored the importance of the Executive Order that offers incentives for those investing in the health sector.

On his part, Dr. Mukhtar stated that the agreement reflects PVAC’s commitment to decreasing reliance on imports and enhancing future access to medical devices.

He said,”This MoU embodies our shared vision for advancing healthcare, enhancing access, improving outcomes, and unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s healthcare value chain.bThis MOU outlines the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery through public-private partnerships. We encourage everyone to support this initiative and work together to turn this vision into a reality”.

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, while also recognizing the country’s pivotal role as a leader in health innovation throughout the continent.

Dr. Rabah El Menshawy, Vice President of EMEA & Global Accounts at Abbott Laboratories GmbH, observed that the MOU highlights the forward-thinking leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose ambitious vision lays the foundation for a brighter future in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

He said,”This commitment ensures that Nigerians can access high-quality diagnostic solutions, proudly produced here in Nigeria. We are inspired by this vision and are honoured to partner in its realization”.

“Our collaboration is focused on supporting Nigeria’s ambitious goal of ending HIV infections by 2030—an objective that aligns with our company’s mission to promote health equity and empower individuals to lead healthier, fuller lives.Through this MoU, Abbott aims to enhance healthcare delivery in Nigeria by improving access to quality diagnostics, thereby contributing to the overall health and well-being of the Nigerian people”.

This initiative equally represents an opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s economy. We believe that local production of rapid diagnostic tests will create employment opportunities and build local capacity through training and knowledge transfer.