U.S. Pledges $5.1B to Support Christian Health Facilities in Nigeria Under New MOU
The United States has committed dedicated funding to Christian faith-based healthcare providers in Nigeria as part of a newly signed five-year, $5.1 billion bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Nigerian government.
Announcing the agreement on Sunday via its official X account, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria described the MOU as a key element of the America First Global Health Strategy. A major focus of the deal is providing targeted financial support to Christian health facilities across the country.
“The MOU includes around $200 million in support for over 900 Christian faith-based healthcare facilities, enhancing access to HIV, TB, malaria, and maternal and child health services,” the statement said.
Christian health facilities play a crucial role in Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly in remote and underserved regions. According to the U.S. Mission, these clinics make up roughly 10% of healthcare providers in Nigeria but serve more than 30% of the nation’s 230 million people.
The support comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with serious public health challenges, especially high maternal and child mortality rates and a significant malaria burden. “This assistance protects both Nigerian and American lives while reinforcing our bilateral partnership,” the statement added.
Beyond faith-based initiatives, the MOU also outlines broader investments in Nigeria’s health sector. Under the agreement, the United States will provide $2.1 billion, while Nigeria is expected to contribute $3 billion in domestic health spending over five years—the largest co-investment under the America First Global Health Strategy to date.
Officials noted that the MOU is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, save lives, and promote mutual benefits for both countries.
In recent months, the United States has increasingly highlighted concerns over the situation of Christians in Nigeria, amid ongoing claims that they face persecution and targeted attacks in parts of the country.
