The Federal Government has intensified efforts to strengthen public health systems as the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, received a high-level delegation from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in Abuja.
The delegation, led by Prof. Aliko Ahmed, Special Regional Representative to the Director-General for the Western Africa Regional Collaborating Centre, engaged in strategic discussions aimed at deepening collaboration on health security and enhancing regional disease response mechanisms.
Focus on Epidemic Preparedness and System Strengthening
During the meeting, both parties highlighted ongoing efforts by the Ministry to strengthen policy implementation and improve system responsiveness, particularly in critical areas such as epidemic preparedness, disease surveillance, and outbreak control.
The delegation commended the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare for driving reforms that are reinforcing Nigeria’s public health architecture and positioning the country as a reliable partner in continental health security efforts.
Nigeria Takes Lead on AMR Conference Planning
A key highlight of the engagement was the upcoming Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Conference, with Nigeria playing a leading role as co-chair of the planning process. Both sides stressed the urgency of coordinated continental action to combat AMR, describing it as a growing threat to global and regional health systems.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Aliko Ahmed underscored Nigeria’s importance within Africa CDC’s framework.
“The country remains a key catalyst for public health advancement across West Africa and the broader African region,” he said.
Renewed Vigilance Amid COVID-19 Case
The meeting comes against the backdrop of renewed attention to disease surveillance following the recent confirmation of a COVID-19 case in Cross River State by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.
Health authorities have maintained effective control measures, while emphasizing the need for sustained vigilance, rapid response systems, and stronger institutional collaboration to prevent further spread.
Commitment to Continental Collaboration
Both the Federal Ministry of Health and the Africa CDC delegation reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships in disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and coordinated response efforts across Africa.
The renewed collaboration signals a strategic push to bolster health security frameworks across the continent, with Nigeria positioned at the forefront of regional and continental public health initiatives.
Share this
