The United States has entered into a five-year partnership with Nigeria aimed at boosting the country’s healthcare system, with particular attention given to the expansion of faith-based medical services.
A statement from the US Department of State disclosed that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed on Saturday, provides for nearly $2.1 billion in American funding to support prevention and treatment initiatives targeting HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, as well as polio. In return, Nigeria has pledged to raise its own health sector spending by almost $3 billion within the same five-year timeframe.
The agreement, according to US officials, places strong emphasis on supporting Christian faith-based healthcare providers. The MOU is reportedly linked to recent policy reforms by the Nigerian government focused on safeguarding Christian communities from violence.
Under the terms of the deal, specific funds will be channelled to Christian-run hospitals and clinics, especially those delivering integrated services for infectious diseases alongside maternal and child healthcare.
“The MOU was negotiated in connection with reforms the Nigerian government has made to prioritise the protection of Christian populations from violence,” the State Department said, adding that it includes substantial dedicated funding for Christian healthcare facilities to expand access to HIV, TB, malaria, and maternal and child health services.
Nigeria is home to approximately 900 faith-based hospitals and clinics, which currently provide healthcare to more than 30 per cent of the population. US authorities noted that investing in these facilities would complement government-owned health institutions and help improve the nation’s overall health infrastructure.
“These faith-based facilities play a critical role in healthcare delivery across Nigeria, and targeted investments in them are well positioned to strengthen the broader health system alongside public facilities,” the statement added.
The Department of State also made it clear that US assistance remains conditional. It stressed that the President and Secretary of State reserve the authority to suspend or discontinue programmes that do not align with US national interests.
The signing of the MOU comes at a time of increased scrutiny of Nigeria by the United States, including recent travel restrictions imposed under the Donald Trump administration, citing security concerns and visa overstays.
The deal also aligns with the America First Global Health Strategy released in September 2025, which promotes bilateral health agreements, greater financial commitment from partner countries, and intensified efforts to fight major diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and malaria, while strengthening national health systems.
