The Federal Government has put in place mechanisms to create a world-class military hospital similar to Walter Reed Military Hospital in the United States, according to Minister of Defense Maj Gen Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd).
Gen. Magashi stated this at a workshop on improving military healthcare in Nigeria that was conducted at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
The Minister stated 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.
The Minister said that in order to address tremendous difficulties for the benefit of the Armed Forces and Nigerians, a coordinated and unified Armed Forces Healthcare delivery system is required while also officially opening the workshop and launching the Needs Assessment and Strategic Review Project.
He said: “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”.
The proposed world-class hospital will be jointly operated by the Army, Navy, and Air Force for the purpose of inclusivity, according to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim Kana, mni, who made the announcement during a presentation.
In a message of goodwill at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff, Maj. Gen. Lucky Irabor, expressed optimism that the project will boost military morale.