Abuja, Nigeria — The government of Japan has announced a significant grant of ¥1.75 billion to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) aimed at enhancing the Centre’s diagnostic capabilities. This was confirmed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications, on October 9, 2024.
In light of this donation, the Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening ties with Japan to foster trade relations and explore collaborative opportunities in areas such as infrastructure, food security, and health.
During a meeting with a Japanese delegation led by the outgoing Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, and Dr. Tanaka Akihiko, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation between the two nations.
Shettima acknowledged JICA’s vital role in Nigeria’s public health, particularly in the country’s successful polio eradication efforts, which helped Nigeria achieve polio-free status in 2020. He assured the delegation that the Nigerian government would address any existing issues in bilateral relations, enhancing collaboration across various sectors.
“We are immensely grateful for JICA’s continuous commitment. Your contributions align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Shettima stated, highlighting Nigeria’s ambition to become a hub for disease control in West Africa and beyond.
Dr. Akihiko expressed condolences over recent floods in Nigeria that have caused significant damage and loss of life. He also announced that Japan will host an International Conference on African Development in Tokyo next year, further underscoring Japan’s commitment to supporting African nations.
This grant is expected to bolster Nigeria’s efforts in disease control, ensuring that the NCDC is better equipped to handle public health challenges, thereby improving overall health outcomes for the population.
