FG, Canada partner to boost health workforce, local Pharma production
By Precious Mark
The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a strategic health partnership with the Government of Canada to strengthen Nigeria’s health workforce, boost sustainable financing, accelerate digital health innovation, and enhance local manufacturing of essential medical supplies.
The bilateral agreement was reached during a high-level meeting in Abuja between the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Chargé d’Affaires at the High Commission of Canada in Nigeria, Mr. David Sproule.
Outlining the Federal Government’s health sector reform agenda, Prof. Pate highlighted ongoing efforts to build a self-reliant and accountable healthcare system by expanding domestic financing and reducing long-term dependence on external aid.
He emphasized that Nigeria is deliberately expanding its medical, nursing, and allied health training institutions to address the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals both domestically and internationally.
Prof. Pate underscored the necessity of structured, mutually beneficial international partnerships to support ethical health worker mobility while preserving Nigeria’s internal capacity to train, retain, and develop its medical personnel.
“Nigeria is building a stronger and more self-reliant health system anchored on national ownership, strategic investments and partnerships that strengthen our institutions,” Prof. Pate stated.
“We welcome collaborations that expand opportunities for our health workforce, build local capacity and deliver better health outcomes for all Nigerians,” he added.
The bilateral discussions covered collaborative initiatives in pre-service education, simulation laboratories, digital health systems, professional certification, and boosting the domestic manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and biological products to achieve national health security.
In his remarks, Mr. Sproule commended Nigeria’s health sector reforms and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to aligning its assistance with Nigeria’s national health priorities.
He confirmed Canada’s interest in deepening cooperation across human resources for health, health systems strengthening, primary healthcare, and digital innovation.
Both delegations agreed to establish operational frameworks to drive joint investments in sustainable health financing, local capacity building, and health security.