The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd) has assured of the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to improve healthcare services for Armed Forces personnel, with emphasis on minimizing medical tourism and enhancing in-country treatment capacity.
The Minister spoke during a courtesy visit to the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja in a statement released on Saturday 9th May 2026 by Captain Moses Yare, For Director of Information and Public Relations. General Musa said the government is prioritising a strong, self-reliant military healthcare system to deliver excellent, accessible and timely care for its people.
“Nigeria has in the past spent huge resources on overseas medical treatment,” General Musa stated. “We must have confidence in our own institutions, by providing credible services that are world class.”
The minister said that improvements are being undertaken in the Defence Health Sector such as better medical screening, early diagnosis and greater capacity to deal with important ailments including cardiovascular disease. He also underscored new steps to develop a comprehensive mental health system for personnel confronting the psychological stress of operations against insurgency and banditry.
“There are concerns about the risks to medical personnel deployed in conflict zones,” General Musa said, speaking to tackling security difficulties. “Efforts are being made to enhance their protection and operational support.” He also announced intentions to establish standardised medical reporting systems for the Army, Navy and Air Force for better co-ordination and efficiency, and to continue working with international partners to improve standards of training and healthcare.
The minister also visited Officer Cadet Salim Abdulnazir, who is undergoing treatment for injuries incurred during training at the Nigerian Defence Academy. General Musa also lauded the professionalism of the administration and staff of the AMCE and the world class standards of the institution.
Dr Aisha Umar the Chief Medical Officer of AMCE in her remarks greeted the minister and reiterated the centre’s readiness to work with the Ministry of Defence, Captain Moses Yare said. “AMCE is a facility with qualified professionals and state-of-the-art facilities capable of providing care that is comparable to global standards,” she said.
Gen. Musa expressed confidence that the reforms would enhance health outcomes, improve the wellbeing of servicemen and establish a more robust military health care system. The message was signed off by Captain Moses Yare For Director of Information and Public Relations.
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