Defence Minister Pledges Improved Military Healthcare, Move to Reduce Medical Tourism
Oru Leonard
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery within the Armed Forces, with renewed focus on reducing medical tourism and expanding local treatment capacity for military personnel.
General Musa made the pledge during a courtesy visit to the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja on Saturday, where he stressed the need for a self-reliant military healthcare system capable of providing timely and high-quality medical services to personnel.
According to the minister, Nigeria has spent significant resources on overseas medical treatment over the years, noting that the country must now invest in building confidence in domestic medical institutions through reliable and globally competitive healthcare services.
He disclosed that reforms are ongoing within the Defence Health Sector, including improved medical screening procedures, early diagnosis mechanisms, and enhanced capacity to manage critical illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.
General Musa also highlighted plans to establish a comprehensive mental health support framework for military personnel dealing with the psychological effects of counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations across the country.
Speaking on operational challenges, the minister expressed concern over threats faced by medical personnel working in conflict zones and assured that efforts are underway to strengthen their protection and operational support systems.
He further revealed plans to harmonise medical reporting systems across the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force to improve coordination, efficiency, and service delivery within the Armed Forces’ healthcare structure.
The Defence Minister also noted that the Ministry is collaborating with international partners to improve healthcare training and raise medical standards across military institutions.
During the visit, General Musa met Officer Cadet Salim Abdulnazir, who is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained during training at the Nigerian Defence Academy. He commended the management and staff of AMCE for their professionalism and world-class medical facilities.
In her remarks, the Chief Medical Officer of AMCE, Aisha Umar, reaffirmed the centre’s readiness to partner with the Ministry of Defence, stating that the facility possesses state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified professionals capable of delivering healthcare services comparable to international standards.
The minister expressed confidence that the ongoing interventions would improve personnel welfare, strengthen military healthcare resilience, and enhance overall health outcomes within the Armed Forces.
