US unveils TB lab donated to Nigeria

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Richard Mills, has hailed the inauguration of a new tuberculosis modular laboratory at the Defence Research Laboratory in Abuja as a landmark achievement in the fight against infectious diseases.

The laboratory, which enhances Nigeria’s capacity to diagnose and treat TB, was hailed as a “game-changer” by the Ambassador, underscoring the deep and long-standing partnership between Nigeria and the United States in the health sector.

Mills, who spoke at the inauguration on Tuesday, highlighted that Nigeria is home to the U.S. government’s largest health programming budget globally, a testament to the importance the U.S. places on its relationship with Africa’s most populous nation.

“I am proud to say that the U.S. government’s investment in the health of Nigerians matches Nigeria’s stature on the continent. 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,” he noted.

The Ambassador emphasised 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, immunisation, 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,” Mills added.

“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.

“It enhances Nigeria’s capacity to diagnose TB not just for military personnel, but for all Nigerians.

“It is heartening to see leaders from the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Center for Disease Control here today, underlining the far-reaching impact of this initiative.”

The Ambassador’s remarks also reflected on the critical lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing the message that global health security is a shared responsibility.

Quoting President Joe Biden, the Ambassador noted, “No one is truly safe until everyone is safe,” and highlighted how the new TB lab will play a crucial role in strengthening Nigeria’s health system, not just for military personnel but for civilians across the country.

“The U.S. Mission in Nigeria looks forward to continuing our strong partnership and building on these shared achievements,” the Ambassador concluded, reaffirming the United States’ dedication to supporting Nigeria’s health and security.