The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, OFR, has called on all stakeholders to remain resolute and committed to advancing public health and force readiness through sustained collaboration as the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme (MODHIP) and the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research Africa celebrate 20 years of partnership.
Speaking at the anniversary event themed “Forging the Future: 20 Years of Military-to-Military Partnership that Advances Force Readiness and Public Health,” General Musa hailed the two-decade-long collaboration as a remarkable model of military-to-military cooperation that has significantly impacted Nigeria’s armed forces and the wider society.
“This extraordinary partnership, built on the foundation of service, science, and sacrifice, has not only strengthened the health systems of our military but has also saved countless lives across Nigeria,” the CDS said.
General Musa highlighted the partnership’s role in combating major public health challenges, including the provision of HIV prevention, care, and treatment for thousands of individuals and its swift response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He also commended its efforts in capacity building and research, noting that they have positioned Nigeria to better tackle emerging infectious diseases while empowering thousands of healthcare workers.
He lauded the establishment of world-class laboratories and training facilities, including the Defence Reference Laboratory in Abuja, which has earned accreditation from the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation.
“Beyond the impressive statistics and infrastructure, this partnership has created human stories of resilience and hope, embodying the true spirit of shared responsibility and solidarity,” he stated.
The CDS reaffirmed the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to sustaining and expanding the achievements of the collaboration, pledging continued support to initiatives that strengthen both military readiness and national health systems.
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