The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) has called for bolder policies, stronger healthcare practices, and wider partnerships to bridge Africa’s health gaps and build resilient systems that meet the needs of its people.
Speaking at the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Annual General Meeting in Calabar, the Chief Medical Officer of AMCE, Dr. Aisha Umar, challenged stakeholders to move “from ambition to action” in strengthening health systems across the continent.
Delivering a keynote address titled “Strengthening Health Systems: From Ambition to Action,” Dr. Umar underscored Africa’s growing health disparities, warning that unless urgent steps are taken, millions will remain underserved.
“Africa bears 25 per cent of the global disease burden but accounts for less than 3 per cent of the world’s health workers.
These aren’t just statistics, they’re the daily realities of mothers, children, and entire communities being left behind,” she said.
Dr. Umar highlighted the African Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja, established by Afreximbank with support from the Nigerian government and other partners, as a model for addressing challenges such as outbound medical tourism and inadequate specialist care.
Opened in June 2025, the centre integrates advanced care in oncology, cardiovascular services, haematology, and other specialties, with a current capacity of 170 beds and plans to expand to 500. It also serves as a regional hub for training, early detection, research, and innovation.
“The AMCE is not just a hospital; it is a symbol of what’s possible when policy, practice, and partnership align to serve our people,” Dr. Umar said.
She urged governments, private sector players, and development partners to work together to transform the continent’s health systems.
“Let today be a turning point. A moment when we commit to building a health system that works for all Nigerians, where our doctors and nurses thrive at home, and world-class care becomes the rule, not the exception,” she said.
