The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, AAmbassador Richard Mills has expressed his satisfaction following the opening of a new tuberculosis modular laboratory at the Defence Research Laboratory in Abuja.
He stated that the major achievement would help in the fight against infectious diseases.
The laboratory, which improves Nigeria’s capacity to identify and treat tuberculosis, was praised as a “game-changer” by the Ambassador, highlighting Nigeria and the United States’ strong and long-standing healthcare collaboration.
Mills said that Nigeria has the United States government’s highest healthcare budget in the world.
He said, “I am proud to say the U.S. government’s investment in the health of Nigerians. In fact, Nigeria is home to our largest health programming budget worldwide.
“This is a substantial investment made possible by the generosity of the American people, and allows us to provide crucial funding and technical assistance across a whole range of health priorities.”
The Ambassador emphasized that the substantial investment, funded by the American people, supports a wide array of health initiatives, from combating major diseases like HIV, malaria, Mpox, and tuberculosis to broader efforts in maternal and child health, immunization, and global health security.
“And more importantly, we’re investing in strengthening Nigeria’s overall health system, as evidenced by this project we have all gathered here to celebrate,”
He further stated, “This new tuberculosis modular laboratory at the Defence Research Lab is a game-changer. It enhances Nigeria’s capacity to diagnose TB not just for military personnel, but for all Nigerians.
“The U.S. Mission in Nigeria looks forward to continuing our strong partnership and building on these shared achievements.”
