Matawalle Calls For Better Healthcare For Nigerian Troops

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has declared that the health of Nigerian servicemn must be prioritised, stressing that access to comprehensive healthcare for troops and their families was non-negotiable.

He described health insurance as a vital tool for easing the financial burden of medical expenses on personnel, noting that it serves as a strategic mechanism to guarantee financial protection and expand coverage within the Armed Forces.

Matawalle made the remarks in Abuja while receiving the Director-General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Kelechi Ohiri, and members of his management team.

According to a statement issued by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the engagement provided stakeholders with an opportunity to review ongoing efforts, re-strategise, and strengthen commitments toward sustainable healthcare delivery for military personnel.

Building on the ministry’s initiatives, Matawalle disclosed that the Armed Forces, in collaboration with an Egyptian pharmaceutical firm, were planning to establish a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Lagos. He explained that the proposed facility is intended to meet the medical needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces and reduce dependence on external supply chains.

“The Ministry of Defence will continue to support initiatives that enhance the welfare of all officers and soldiers,” he said.

The minister further stressed that servicemen and women face significant health risks in the line of duty and therefore deserve quality, affordable, and accessible medical care. He urged the NHIA to work closely with Corps Commanders of Medical Services to ensure improved healthcare outcomes for troops across formations nationwide.

Responding, Ohiri commended the minister for his “passionate commitment” to the welfare of personnel, assuring that the authority is prepared to support the military in reducing the cost of drugs through ongoing reforms.

He added that the NHIA would also review other operational challenges with a view to strengthening service delivery to the Armed Forces.

The meeting was attended by key defence and health officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwah, and senior medical commanders from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.