The World Health Organization (WHO) and the TY Danjuma Foundation have signed a landmark $2.26 million agreement aimed at advancing Nigeria’s national health priorities over the next decade.
The partnership, formalized on Monday in Abuja, will fund the WHO Country Office’s operations in Nigeria through December 2034, with a focus on expanding access to integrated health services for women, children, and vulnerable populations in Taraba, Edo, and Enugu states.
Describing the funding as “fully flexible,” WHO said in a statement that it will enable strategic deployment of resources to respond to Nigeria’s evolving healthcare needs.
“This collaboration sets a new standard for health partnerships in Nigeria,” said Dr. Walter Mulombo, WHO Representative in Nigeria. “The flexible funding and shared vision will drive measurable progress in addressing the needs of our most vulnerable populations.”
The agreement marks one of the most significant philanthropic contributions to WHO from within the continent, with emphasis on African-led solutions. Lieutenant General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), Founder and Chairman Emeritus of the TY Danjuma Foundation, expressed pride in the collaboration.
“This agreement reflects our dedication to improving lives and fostering sustainable development in our communities,” Danjuma said.
Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, lauded the partnership as a testament to the country’s drive for equitable healthcare delivery.
“This is a powerful commitment to health equity. We welcome the collaboration with WHO and TY Danjuma Foundation to deliver sustainable, high-impact health solutions,” Pate stated.
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, also praised the move, calling it timely in the face of global funding challenges.
“At a time when the global health sector is facing a funding crisis, this long-term, flexible support strengthens our ability to support national leadership and serve communities where help is most needed,” he said.
As part of the agreement’s implementation, a high-level delegation will visit Taraba State on June 3, 2025, to assess project impact. The team will tour the TY Danjuma Foundation Medical Centre and commission the newly built Christian Reformed Church of Nigeria Hospital in Takum, donated by the foundation.
Established in 2009, the TY Danjuma Foundation supports local NGOs to improve healthcare and education in underserved communities, with field offices in Taraba and Edo States.
