The World Health Organisation (WHO) Nigeria has held a Health Diplomacy Dialogue with ambassadors and diplomatic representatives to discuss Nigeria’s health priorities, emerging global health developments and international cooperation.
The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on changes in the global health architecture, the Accra Reset, regional health priorities and the need for stronger country leadership in shaping health policies and programmes.
According to WHO Nigeria, discussions also focused on national ownership of health systems and more effective international cooperation amid changes in the global health landscape.
Health Security, Outbreaks and Funding
The dialogue examined Nigeria’s health security and humanitarian situation, including ongoing disease outbreaks, preparedness efforts and the implications of changes in health financing.
WHO Nigeria said these issues remain central to its health security agenda, particularly as countries work towards building resilient health systems that are led by national priorities.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of diplomatic engagement in connecting Nigeria’s health needs with regional and global decision-making processes.
Nigeria to Host Antimicrobial Resistance Conference
Participants were briefed on Nigeria’s plan to host the 5th High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) from December 6 to 8, 2026, in Abuja.
The conference is expected to provide an opportunity to advance the One Health approach and move global commitments on antimicrobial resistance towards practical implementation, sustainable financing and accountability.
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond effectively to medicines used to treat infections. It remains a major global health concern requiring coordinated action across human, animal and environmental health.
WHO Highlights Role of Diplomats in Health Cooperation
WHO Nigeria emphasised the importance of diplomatic missions in advancing health priorities, noting that their engagement with their home governments and wider diplomatic networks can help bring national concerns into regional and international discussions.
Speaking on the importance of the engagement, WHO Representative Dr Pavel Ursu stated that “health diplomacy is not only about sharing information. It is about connecting national priorities with regional and global processes and using our collective voice to turn dialogue into action and impact.”
WHO Nigeria said it would continue to use the Health Diplomacy Dialogue as a platform for timely, transparent and strategic engagement with the diplomatic community as global health priorities evolve.
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