By Abujah Racheal
Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China are set to deepen collaboration on pandemic preparedness and response at a high-level health security dialogue scheduled to hold in Abuja on March 30.
Mr Ado Bako, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.
According to Bako, the meeting will serve as a platform to exchange practical lessons and deepen collaboration toward building more resilient health systems.
Bako said the meeting, organised by the ministry is themed “Lessons on Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Insights from China and Nigeria”.
He said the dialogue comes as countries worldwide continue to strengthen their health systems in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, with renewed focus on improving readiness for future public health emergencies.
According to him, key discussions will centre on strengthening disease surveillance and early warning systems and improving emergency response coordination.
It would also enhance health system resilience, and build community trust through effective risk communication.
Bako said participants would also examine strategies for advancing international cooperation in pandemic preparedness.
He said that the engagement would further explore opportunities for expanded Nigeria–China collaboration in public health research and innovation, laboratory systems and pathogen surveillance.
Also in technology transfer, capacity development, and coordinated responses to cross-border health threats.
Bako said that the event will be hosted by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, while Prof. George Fu Gao, will deliver a keynote address.
Also expected at the dialogue is Nigerian virologist, Prof. Oyewale Tomori.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the symposium is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen its health system under ongoing reforms, leveraging global partnerships to ensure faster and more coordinated responses to future public health emergencies.
NAN also reports that the hybrid meeting is expected to bring together no fewer than 300 delegates, including senior government officials, global health institutions, policymakers, scientists, and development partners from more than 30 organisations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
