Leadnaija
The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has proposed a strategic partnership with Montefiore Einstein Medical Centre in New York, USA, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system through innovation and infrastructure development.
Kalu made the proposal on Friday in Abuja while receiving the President of Montefiore, Dr. Philip Ozuah, and his delegation during a courtesy visit.
Highlighting health as a cornerstone of national development, the Deputy Speaker said, “In the 10th House of Representatives, health is regarded as central to national security, human capital development, and economic progress.”
Quoting World Health Organization data, Kalu noted that every dollar invested in health yields fourfold productivity returns. He acknowledged Nigeria’s recent health milestones, including the eradication of wild polio, expanded maternal and child health services, and increased outreach from tertiary institutions.
He added that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government has prioritized the health sector, with over ₦1.33 trillion allocated in the 2024 national budget, the highest in the country’s history.
However, Kalu stressed that “budgets alone do not deliver outcomes; resilient systems do.” He called for innovative partnerships, sustained investment, and effective policy frameworks to build a stronger healthcare system.
Kalu outlined key legislative initiatives of the 10th Assembly, such as:
- Mandatory health coverage under the NHIA Act
- Expansion of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund
- Promotion of domestic pharmaceutical research
- Passage of the Health Infrastructure Development and Regulation Bill
- Modernization of outdated health laws
- Advancement of the Medical Residency Training Fund (Amendment) Bill
- Commissioning of the National Assembly Clinic as a model facility
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s $1.1 billion annual medical tourism bill and the decline of international health aid, adding that gaps in healthcare infrastructure remain, especially in the South East.
“Montefiore’s involvement would enhance healthcare delivery and contribute to post-conflict reconstruction and regional stability,” Kalu said.
He concluded by expressing optimism that the partnership would leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
