Defence Minister Advocates for Troop Healthcare Improvements

On Tuesday, Bello Matawalle, the Nigerian Minister of Defence, declared that the health of Nigerian service members remains a top priority, stressing the need for comprehensive healthcare access for troops and their families. He described health insurance as a critical pillar in reducing the financial burden of medical care for personnel.

During a meeting in Abuja with Kelechi Ohiri, the Director General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Matawalle emphasized the importance of strategic tools to guarantee financial protection and expand coverage within the armed forces. He also disclosed plans for a collaboration with an Egyptian pharmaceutical firm to establish a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Lagos, aimed at meeting the medical needs of the Nigerian armed forces and reducing dependence on external supply chains.

The Minister reiterated his commitment to enhancing the welfare of military personnel, who face significant health risks in the line of duty, and urged the NHIA to work closely with military medical services to improve healthcare outcomes nationwide.