FG Moves to Renew Partnership with MSF to Strengthen Humanitarian and Health Services in Nigeria

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening humanitarian and health interventions across Nigeria as it moves to renew its cooperation agreement with the international medical humanitarian organisation, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, disclosed this during a high-level meeting with the leadership of MSF Nigeria held Tuesday in Abuja.

The meeting focused on renewing the Federal Cooperation Agreement between the government and MSF, with both parties exploring ways to deepen collaboration and ensure uninterrupted humanitarian services for vulnerable communities across the country.

Bagudu commended MSF for its critical role in supporting underserved populations, particularly in areas affected by poverty, insecurity, and limited healthcare infrastructure.

However, the minister highlighted several challenges hindering effective service delivery in parts of the country. These include inadequate infrastructure in many local government areas, weak laboratory capacity caused by electricity shortages and equipment gaps, and insufficient or poorly maintained ambulance and emergency services.

He also pointed to uneven health system performance across wards and regions, persistent development disparities—especially in northern states—and community perceptions that sometimes affect programme acceptance and participation.

According to him, the government remains committed to improving coordination, accountability, and long-term development planning to strengthen healthcare delivery nationwide.

Bagudu also outlined ongoing government efforts to reinforce health systems, expand economic opportunities, promote agriculture, and build sustainable local structures that reduce dependence on external humanitarian assistance.

Speaking on behalf of MSF, the Country Director, Dr. Pitchou Kayembe, expressed appreciation for the continued collaboration with the Nigerian government and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to delivering life-saving humanitarian and medical services.

Kayembe noted MSF’s ongoing engagement with government stakeholders, including field support, project supervision, policy coordination, and service delivery across several states.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Deborah Odoh, also praised MSF for its dedication to reaching remote communities, particularly in northern Nigeria, and assured the ministry’s full support for ongoing humanitarian efforts.

The meeting ended with both sides agreeing on the urgent need to renew the cooperation agreement to ensure uninterrupted support for communities across Nigeria.