President Bola Tinubu’s government has said the $5.1 billion five-year bilateral healthcare memorandum of understanding signed with the U.S. is an indication of the seamless and unbroken bilateral relationships between Nigeria and the country.
Information minister, Muhammed Idris, disclosed this at the ministry of information end-of-the-year press briefing in Abuja on Monday.
“Only a few days ago, the federal government of Nigeria signed a five-year $5.18 billion dollars health cooperation of memorandum of understanding with the U.S.,” Mr Idris said. “So for those thinking that Nigeria’s relationship with the U.S. has been damaged, there is further proof that this is not so.”
The U.S. recently redesignated Nigeria as a country of particular concern following allegations of Christian genocide in the country, with President Donald Trump threatening to launch military operation if Mr Tinubu failed to check the situation.
However, Mr Idris, who described Nigeria as a respected player on the global stage, said the diplomatic row with the U.S. had resulted in strengthened partnerships with the country, especially in the area of security, rather than damage the countries’ bilateral relations.
“Nigeria is now a respected player on the global stage. And all of you are aware of this. In 2025, we navigated a very complex international diplomacy with maturity, principle and dignity that Nigerians are known for.
“For example, the recent diplomatic spat with the U.S. has been largely resolved through a firm, respectful engagement, culminating in a strengthened partnership between America and Nigeria. What has happened as it was has also strengthened collaborations that Nigeria is having with the U.S. especially in the area of security, making sure that Nigerians live off these crime and criminal elements,” he said.
The minister stated that the MoU was expected to strengthen the country’s healthcare system, while ensuring that Nigerians of all faiths benefit from the partnership.
“We had some people saying the American government was talking about only saving a particular religion in this country, what is contained in that MoU is that there is multi-faith cooperation between Nigerians of all faiths, meaning that every Nigeria is going to be a beneficiary of the partnership,” Mr Idris stated.
Meanwhile, a U.S. congressional delegation led by Bill Huizenga, on Sunday, said the CPC redesignation aimed to encourage reforms and constructive engagement and would not weaken bilateral relations with Nigeria.
“For me personally, I believe the CPC designation is warranted, but it is also meant to spur progress and internal conversations within Nigeria on how to better protect people of all faiths. The core message is that all citizens, regardless of faith, must be protected and feel safe, ”Mr Huizenga said, after meeting with the Nigerian government officials, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and private sector representatives.
