The United States Mission in Nigeria has said that strategic partnerships between its companies and Nigerian institutions can expand access to healthcare services, improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and advance disease prevention and control.
The Commercial Officer, U.S. Mission in Nigeria, Blake Murray, who made the pledge in Abuja during the launch of Cassona Global Imaging operations in Nigeria, observed that the U.S. Mission in Nigeria is committed to deepening bilateral trade relations between the two countries.
Murray disclosed that the U.S. Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment plan to launch the United States-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership next month in Abuja, which would prioritise collaboration in agriculture, digital economy, and infrastructure.
He said that by working together, the U.S. and Nigeria can address pressing healthcare challenges and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians. “Last year, two-way trade between the United States and Nigeria hit a record $13 billion. Our shared goal is to promote two-way investment and deepen commercial ties between our nations.”
Murray stated that the investment by Cassona Global Imaging is a testament to the growing interest of U.S. companies in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. “It demonstrates the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships that can drive progress and prosperity in both countries.”
According to him, the partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement in Nigeria.
He said, “Nigerian firms and public institutions collaborating with U.S. medical suppliers, like Cassona Global Imaging, have access to original equipment manufacturers, cutting-edge technologies, world-class standards, and critical service and warranty support.”
The Chairman and CEO of Cassona Global Imaging Limited, John Chigbu, said the company’s mission is to make quality healthcare accessible to all Nigerians.
Chigbu explained that the company’s equipment range includes ultrasound machines, X-ray machines, CT scanners, and PET scans, which will significantly improve disease diagnostics in Nigeria.
He noted that the lack of access to quality healthcare has led to medical tourism, where Nigerians with means travel abroad for treatment. “We need to reverse this trend. We need medical tourism to come into Nigeria, and make quality healthcare accessible to all, not just those who can afford it.”
Chigbu revealed that the firm intends to set up diagnostic centres and hospitals in Nigeria, equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, adding that the company will also provide training for healthcare professionals, ensuring that they are proficient in using the equipment.
He said, “We’re not just building hospitals; we’re building a healthcare ecosystem. We’ll provide training, maintenance, and support to ensure that our equipment is always working. If it breaks down, we’ll fix it within 48 hours or provide a loaner.” Chigbu said the company is committed to localising Nigeria’s healthcare system by recruiting and training Nigerian professionals.
