By Muhammad Amaan
The World Health Organisation (WHO) in the African Region and the TY Danjuma Foundation have signed a landmark 2.26 million dollars agreement to strengthen Nigeria’s national health priorities over the next 10 years.
Speaking in Abuja, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, said the partnership marked a significant milestone in leveraging African philanthropy to tackle the country’s evolving health challenges.
He noted that the flexible funding would support the WHO Nigeria Country Office’s work plan through December 2034.
“This contribution could not have come at a better time.
“In spite of the headwinds, we as Africans will lead. We will take up our own challenges and move forward,” Ihekweazu said.
He added that the long-term funding provided WHO Nigeria with the flexibility to adapt to emerging health needs, improve strategic planning, and strengthen national health systems, especially in primary healthcare and maternal and child health.
“The initiative aligns with the WHO Investment Round to promote domestic resource mobilisation and sustainable health financing across the continent.”
Founder and Chairman of the TY Danjuma Foundation, Lt.-Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (Rtd) ,said the foundation was proud to partner with WHO to advance Nigeria’s health priorities.
“The initiative will focus on expanding access to integrated health services for women, children, and vulnerable populations in Taraba, Edo, and Enugu States.
“Founded in 2009, the TY Danjuma Foundation supports local NGOs in delivering impactful community programmes in health and education,” he said.
Lt.-Gen. Danjuma said the partnership reflected the foundation’s long-term commitment to sustainable development and health equity in Nigeria.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by Dr Godwin Ntadom, Director of Public Health, welcomed the collaboration as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive healthcare.
“A visit to Taraba on June 3, 2025, will showcase the partnership’s real-world impact.
“The delegation will tour the TY Danjuma Foundation Medical Centre and commission the new Christian Reformed Church of Nigeria Hospital in Takum,” Pate said.
WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr Walter Mulombo, described the collaboration as a model for future health partnerships.
“This flexible funding and shared vision will help us achieve measurable progress in meeting the needs of Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities,” he said.
