In 2005, the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme (MODHIP) and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research – Africa, Nigeria (WRAIR) began a collaboration that has since transformed defence health in Nigeria. On Tuesday, leaders from both nations gathered to mark 20 years of impact.

Over two decades, the partnership has delivered lifesaving results: over 500,000 Nigerians tested for HIV, more than 69,000 adults and children initiated on treatment, and nearly 280,000 pregnant women counselled to protect mothers and babies.

The anniversary was attended by The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle; The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills; The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; The Commanding General of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command, Major General Paula C. Lodi; The Director General of MODHIP, Brigadier General I.B. Solebo; The Commander of WRAIR, Colonel Brianna Perata; The Director of WRAIR Africa, Colonel Shannon Lacy; and The Country Director of WRAIR in Nigeria, Ms. Helina Meri, alongside senior military and health officials from both governments.

In his remarks, the Director General of MODHIP emphasized how the partnership has strengthened Nigeria’s defence and public health systems, trained thousands of health workers, and advanced groundbreaking research.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence commended the lifesaving services and described them as critical to Nigeria’s defence, health, and national security.

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria added that this collaboration is “a testament to the power of unity,” praising the resilience and dedication that turned challenges into opportunities for better health outcomes.

As MODHIP and WRAIR move forward, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to building on these achievements and preparing for future health challenges.