The Federal Government has commended the commitment of Nigerian healthcare professionals in the diaspora for their continued support in strengthening the country’s healthcare system through medical missions and strategic partnerships.
Speaking at the gala night of the 31st Annual Scientific Convention and 30th Anniversary of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA) held in Lagos.
The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, praised the group’s dedication over the past three decades.
Dr. Salako acknowledged ANPA’s consistent efforts in organizing medical missions to Nigeria, training local healthcare workers, donating medical equipment, and delivering critical health interventions to underserved populations.
He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation to Nigerian diaspora medical professionals, noting that their efforts align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
“The government sees health as a fundamental right and a top priority,” Dr. Salako said, citing the creation of the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) as a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the health system.
“We have developed this investment blueprint to alleviate suffering, save lives, and make healthcare accessible to all Nigerians,” he added.
Highlighting key achievements, the Minister said the government is working to unlock the value chain in the health sector and called on diaspora professionals to invest in local pharmaceutical manufacturing, supported by tariff-free importation of raw materials and active pharmaceutical ingredients.
He noted that budgetary allocations to the health sector have seen a steady increase, allowing for seamless recruitment of healthcare professionals and the restoration of funding to regulatory agencies.
Dr. Salako also referenced the government’s swift intervention when USAID funding was threatened, revealing that over $200 million was allocated in the 2025 budget to sustain critical health programs addressing HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
In his remarks, ANPA President Dr. Cliff Eke emphasized the need for deeper collaboration between diaspora and local physicians to improve access and quality of healthcare for Nigeria’s 250 million citizens.
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This year’s ANPA medical mission, themed “Advancing Patient Care: Leadership, Research, and Strategic Investment,” delivered over 500 surgical procedures and dental interventions. Notable achievements include 387 cataract surgeries, 30 glaucoma operations, laparoscopic procedures, dental implants, and postpartum care—many performed at the Indo Eye Clinic, in what is regarded as a groundbreaking three-day mission.
The mission’s sub-theme, “Aligning the Health Sector and Diaspora to Improve Healthcare in Nigeria,” reflects ANPA’s commitment to sustainable impact through long-term partnerships.
