By: ThinkBusiness Africa
the United States and the Federal Republic of Nigeria have officially signed a five-year, $5.1 billion bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement marks the largest co-investment by any partner nation to date under the America First Global Health Strategy, signaling a new era of shared responsibility and national ownership in public health. The U.S Nigeria mission said in a statement on Sunday.
The pact formalizes a massive financial commitment aimed at dismantling long-standing health crises while securing the interests of both nations.
Unlike traditional aid models, this MOU is structured as a “co-investment,” shifting the focus toward sustainability and mutual accountability. The U.S intends to provide $2.1 billion in health assistance over the next five years, while the Nigerian government has pledged $3.0 billion in new domestic health spending.
commitment from Abuja is a record-breaking figure under the America First strategy, demonstrating Nigeria’s resolve to lead its own healthcare modernization.
A cornerstone of the agreement is a strategic emphasis on Nigeria’s religious healthcare network. The MOU earmarks approximately $200 million in dedicated support for more than 900 Christian
While Christian clinics represent only 10% of total providers, they serve more than 30% of Nigeria’s 230 million people.
Many of these hospitals operate in remote and underserved areas where government infrastructure is often unavailable.
Notably, the agreement was negotiated alongside recent Nigerian government reforms aimed at prioritizing the protection of Christian populations from extremist violence.
The U.S. Mission said “This investment ensures that life-saving services for HIV, TB, malaria, and maternal health are available where they are needed most.” U.S Mission noted.
The funding arrives at a critical juncture for the West African nation. Nigeria currently faces some of the most daunting health statistics in the world.
Nigeria accounts for 30% of the global malaria burden. The country continues to grapple with one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates worldwide.
The MOU aims to aggressively target these areas through integrated services, while also bolstering efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and polio.
The U.S. State Department emphasized that this assistance is not merely charitable but a strategic move to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. By strengthening Nigeria’s ability to detect and respond to outbreaks, the U.S. is effectively reinforcing its own health security against global pandemics.
“This five-year MOU will strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, save lives, and make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.” The U.S Mission emphasized.
