Nigeria and the United States have signed a landmark $5.1 billion health agreement under the America First Global Health Strategy on the 19th of December 2025. The five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) involves a $2.1 billion commitment from the US and $3 billion in new domestic spending from Nigeria.

The agreement focuses on strengthening Nigeria's healthcare system, with priority areas including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), malaria, polio, and maternal and child health. Approximately $200 million is dedicated to supporting over 900 Christian faith-based healthcare facilities, which serve more than 30% of Nigeria's population.

Nigeria faces significant health challenges, including a high malaria burden (30% of global cases) and poor maternal and child health outcomes. The country also has a severe shortage of medical professionals, with a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:3,500, far below the WHO recommended 1:600.

The agreement was negotiated alongside Nigerian reforms to protect Christian populations from extremist violence. Nigeria's health budget was increased by nearly 60% in 2025 to address funding gaps. It aims to strengthen Nigeria's healthcare system, improve health outcomes, and enhance bilateral ties.

Aisha Egena-Aruwa

TalkAfrica NG