The World Health Organisation (WHO) in the African Region and the TY Danjuma Foundation have signed a landmark $2.26 million agreement to strengthen Nigeria’s national health priorities over the next 10 years.
Speaking in Abuja, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, 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 Dec. 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.”
“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, ” he said.
Ihekweazu noted that the initiative would focus on expanding access to integrated health services for women, children, and vulnerable populations in Taraba, Edo, and Enugu States.
The TY Danjuma Foundation would support local NGOs in delivering impactful community programs in health and education.
Also, Retired Lt.-General Theophilus Danjuma, Founder and Chairman of the TYDanjuma Foundation, 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.
Danjuma said that the partnership reflected the foundation’s long-term commitment to sustainable development and health equity in Nigeria.
In his remarks, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate, 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.
The partnership is expected to improve health outcomes for Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities.
