December 22, (THEWILL) — The United States and Nigeria have signed a landmark five-year bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see both nations commit more than $5 billion to strengthening Nigeria’s health system.
The agreement places a significant emphasis on enhancing both preventive and curative care across the federation.
A statement issued by the U.S. Department of State and signed by its Principal Deputy Spokesperson, Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, confirmed that the pact was formalised on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Under the terms of the MOU, the U.S. Department of State, in collaboration with the U.S. Congress, intends to commit nearly $2.1 billion over the next five years to expand essential health services.
This funding will target critical interventions in HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, polio, and maternal and child health.
In a major demonstration of local ownership and fiscal responsibility, Nigeria is expected to increase its domestic health expenditure by nearly $3 billion over the lifespan of the agreement.
The U.S. government described this partnership as the largest co-investment by any nation to date under the America First Global Health Strategy.
A significant pillar of the agreement is the targeted support for faith-based healthcare providers, particularly Christian-run facilities, which remain vital to Nigeria’s medical landscape.
The State Department noted that Nigeria’s estimated 900 faith-based clinics and hospitals currently serve over 30 percent of the population, with a deep reach into rural and underserved communities.
The MOU provides dedicated funding to bolster these facilities, ensuring they can expand access to integrated services while complementing the efforts of government-owned institutions.
THEWILL reports that the agreement was negotiated alongside ongoing reforms by the Nigerian government to improve national security and protect vulnerable populations.
The U.S. government highlighted that continued progress in combating extremist religious violence remains a key expectation under this strategic partnership.
However, the State Department reiterated that, consistent with foreign assistance protocols, the U.S. President and Secretary of State retain the authority to pause or terminate support should the programmes no longer align with U.S. national interests.
The five-year pact is expected to provide a massive boost to healthcare delivery, fortify health infrastructure, and improve long-term health outcomes for millions of Nigerians.
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