Defence minister pledges improved military healthcare, reduced medical tourism

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery for members of the Armed Forces, with emphasis on reducing medical tourism and expanding treatment capacity within Nigeria.

Musa made the pledge on Saturday during a courtesy visit to the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja, where he stated that government was focused on building a self-reliant military healthcare system capable of providing quality and timely medical care for personnel.

According to him, Nigeria has spent huge resources on overseas medical treatment over the years, stressing the need to strengthen local institutions to deliver services that meet international standards.

“We must build confidence in our own institutions by providing reliable services that meet global standards,” the minister said.

He outlined ongoing reforms in the Defence Health Sector, including improved medical screening, early diagnosis and enhanced capacity to manage critical health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases.

The minister also disclosed plans to establish a comprehensive mental health framework for military personnel dealing with the psychological impact of operations against insurgency and banditry.

Musa further revealed plans to harmonise medical reporting systems across the Army, Navy and Air Force to improve coordination and efficiency, while also strengthening collaboration with international partners on healthcare training and standards.

The minister commended the management of AMCE for its professionalism and world-class facilities, while the centre’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Aisha Umar, reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the Ministry of Defence in delivering quality healthcare services.