US Ambasador
Hope for Global Health

Nigeria: The Giant of Africa, A Beacon of Hope for Global Health

In a powerful statement, U.S. Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard highlighted Nigeria’s significance as a leader in Africa and a key partner in global health initiatives. At the inauguration of the Tuberculosis Modular Laboratory in Abuja, Ambassador Mills emphasized Nigeria’s stature as the continent’s largest democracy, economy, and population.

The U.S. government’s investment in Nigeria’s health sector is a testament to the country’s importance, with the largest health programming budget worldwide. This significant funding supports a wide range of health priorities, including the fight against infectious diseases like HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as broader initiatives like nutrition, maternal and child healthcare, and global health security.

Ambassador Mills praised the partnership between Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Department of Defence, citing it as a shining example of advancing global health security. He also emphasized the importance of preparedness, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as a stark reminder of shared vulnerabilities.

As the U.S. continues to partner with Nigeria to build stronger global health security capacity, Ambassador Mills echoed President Biden’s sentiment: “No one is truly safe until everyone is safe.” This commitment to collective safety underscores the significance of Nigeria’s role in shaping the future of global health.”