Defence minister Matawalle pushes for armed forces medical college
Naija News • Feb 22
**Nigeria's Military Healthcare Vision Takes Shape**
In a significant move to bolster Nigeria's national security, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has championed the establishment of the Armed Forces College of Medicine and Health Sciences. This groundbreaking initiative aims to revolutionize military healthcare, ensuring both military personnel and civilians have access to quality medical care.
The proposed college will address the long-standing shortage of medical doctors within the Armed Forces by training personnel specifically dedicated to military service. This is a welcome development, as many civilian doctors have been hesitant to enlist in the military due to the unique demands of military service. By investing in local talent, the Armed Forces can rely less on civilian doctors and develop a robust medical workforce.
The college will be an integral part of the Nigerian Defence Academy, with its main campus situated in Lagos. The project will leverage existing facilities, such as the 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Yaba, and the Military Hospital, Lagos, among others. This strategic partnership will not only optimize resources but also provide the much-needed expertise to drive the initiative forward.
The initiative aligns with the presidential directive of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen national security through highly specialized and well-trained military medical professionals. With the support of international partners, including the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research in the United States, the Armed Forces College of Medicine and Health Sciences is poised to become a cornerstone in Nigeria's military and public healthcare system.
Speaking at a high-level strategic meeting with the Ministries of Defence and Education, Minister Matawalle emphasized the importance of effective collaboration among key ministries and institutions in implementing healthcare reforms. The meeting brought together critical stakeholders, including the Minister of Education, Morufu Olatunji Alausa, and the Director-General of the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme, Brig. Gen. IB Solebo.
The college is expected to commence its first admission in November this year, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria's military healthcare journey. With proper planning and adherence to quality standards, the Armed Forces College of Medicine and Health Sciences is set to revolutionize the country's healthcare landscape, ensuring that military personnel and civilians receive the best possible medical care.