The Minister of Defence Maj Gen Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd) said the Federal Government has put in place mechanism to establish a world class Military hospital akin to Walter Reed Military Hospital in the USA.
Gen. Magashi made this known during the workshop on reforming military health services in Nigeria held in Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
The Minister remarked that “the Ministry resolved to review the Armed Forces Health System, identify gaps and reposition it to better serve the Military Personnel, Veterans and their families as well as the general public.”
He said in realization of the need to have a wholesome reform of the Defence Sector, standardization of Medical Services for the military is prioritized. “In this Direction, the Ministry engaged a consultant to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the Armed Forces Health System with a view to upgrading the facilities, recruiting more Personnel and boost the morale of the Armed Forces and civilian alike.” The Minister pointed out.
While declaring the workshop open and symbolically flagging off the Needs Assessment and Strategic Review Project, the Minister stated that there is need for a coordinated and unified Armed Forces Healthcare delivery system to tackle enormous challenges for the benefit of the Armed Forces and Nigerians.
“My vision is to put in place mechanisms that will lead to the establishment of a world class Military Hospital akin to Walter Reed Hospital in the USA that will successfully manage officers and soldiers injured in battle as well as provide serving Personnel, Veterans and their families and indeed Nigerians quality healthcare services. I am soliciting for your support to set this noble project in motion even though I know accomplishing this during our time in the Ministry may be difficult but we look forward to be beneficiaries of this noble venture in the nearest future.” He said.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim Kana, mni, while making presentation announced that the Chief of Defence Staff has acquired a land from the FCT Authorities to house the proposed world class hospital to be jointly managed by the Army, Navy and Air Force for the purpose of inclusivity.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Maj Gen Lucky Irabor, in a goodwill message at the occasion expressed optimisms that the project would raise the morale of the Armed
Victoria Agba-Attah
Director (Press)
