Minister of Defence Advocates for Exclusive Health Coverage for Armed Forces Personnel

Minister of Defence Advocates for Exclusive Health Coverage for Armed Forces Personnel

Aysha S. Rabo

Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar the Minister of Defence, has called for the need for an independent healthcare system to cater exclusively for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Speaking at a high-profile gathering of military health officials and stakeholders on Monday, the Minister, represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, championed the cause for Defense Health Maintenance Limited (DHML), stating the organisation’s pivotal role in reshaping healthcare for military personnel.

A key part of the Honourable Minister’s address was the suggestion to withdraw the Armed Forces from the National Health Insurance (NHI) Scheme. “I propose that we make a formal request to the President to consider liberating the Armed Forces from the defensive measures imposed by the NHI. If granted, this autonomy would empower the Armed Forces to manage their contributions, resulting in an unimpeded and comprehensive healthcare coverage,” he argued.

His address delved further into broader reforms within the Armed Forces Medical System, highlighting the green light for the establishment of a quaternary Armed Forces reference hospital in Abuja, and the need for concurrent infrastructural development alongside these reforms.

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Furthermore, the Minister stressed the Ministry of Defense’s dedication to enhancing human resources by increasing the number of interns in hospitals. The impending construction of a 100-bed intern quarters at the Armed Forces Reference Hospital in Abuja. “I envisage that the establishment of an Armed Forces Medical College coupled with a recruitment drive targeting students from universities, reminiscent of practices in the 60s and 70s, will comprehensively address human resource needs.

The Minister concluded his address by congratulating DHML’s CEO for steering the organisation through challenging times. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to endorsing healthcare initiatives within the Armed Forces, accentuating the imperative to create an environment conducive to the thriving of military personnel.

Minister of Defence Advocates for Exclusive Health Coverage for Armed Forces Personnel