FG, MSF reinforce partnership to address humanitarian challenges in Nigeria
The Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on Monday held a high-level meeting with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Nigeria to discuss the renewal of the Federal Cooperation Agreement and reinforce collaboration for uninterrupted humanitarian operations across the country.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting humanitarian initiatives, while highlighting key challenges affecting service delivery in several states.
Bagudu cited limited infrastructure in many local government areas, weak laboratory capacity due to electricity and equipment gaps, and inadequate ambulance and emergency services as major hurdles. He also pointed to uneven health-system performance, persistent development disparities—especially in northern states—community perceptions affecting programme participation, and the need for improved allocation and management of public resources.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing coordination, accountability, and long-term development planning, while continuing efforts to strengthen health systems, expand economic opportunities, support agriculture, and promote sustainable local structures that reduce dependence on external aid.
Speaking on behalf of MSF, Country Director Dr Pitchou Kayembe expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Nigerian government and reaffirmed MSF’s commitment to delivering life-saving humanitarian services.
“The partnership with the federal government allows us to maintain high-quality medical and humanitarian aid even in the most challenging conditions, while ensuring fair processes, programme enhancement, and effective coordination with stakeholders,” Kayembe said.
Dr Deborah Odoh, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, also praised MSF’s contributions, noting the organisation’s dedication to reaching remote northern communities and assuring full support from the ministry for ongoing humanitarian efforts.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing on the urgency of renewing the cooperation agreement to prevent interruptions in essential services, enhance health outcomes, increase programme transparency, and strengthen the partnership. MSF, also known as Doctors Without Borders, has been operating in Nigeria since 1996, currently implementing healthcare projects in 11 states, including Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Borno, Ebonyi, and Cross River.
