FG MOVES TO ENHANCE the FACILITIES OF SIX ONCOLOGY CENTERS ACROSS NIGERIA. ..... Signs Purchase Agreement With Siemens For Advanced Equipment

Managing Director, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority Aminu Umar Sadiq in a handshake with Mr. Ashok Kakkar Vice President Siemens Healthineers Zone Head for Middle East and Africa; Middle: Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare Prof Muhammad Ali Pate; Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom mni, Chief Medical Director, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Prof Hameed Ahmed; DG NASCRAT Usman Aliyu, after the signing of the sale purchase agreement

"The significance of the agreement extends beyond a commercial transaction; it represents a strategic alignment of public and private sector resources to address some of the most pressing health challenges facing our nation." Pate.

Nigeria's Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate on Monday, supervised the signing of a significant agreement between the Federal Government, represented by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), and Siemens Healthineers. 

The agreement covers a partnership entered into with Siemens Healthineers for the purchase agreement for advanced equipment that will enhance the facilities of six oncology centres across the country. This collaboration aims to improve cancer care and treatment options for patients nationwide.

This, according to a statement issued and signed by Tashikalmah Hallah, Special Adviser on Media and External Relations to the Coordinating Minister, explains that, "the significance of the agreement extends beyond a commercial transaction; it represents a strategic alignment of public and private sector resources to address some of the most pressing health challenges facing our nation." 

The statement noted that, "With the first set of facilities expected to be operational by May 2025, this agreement marks the beginning of a transformative era in Nigeria’s cancer care landscape. For the first time, our nation will benefit from a large-scale investment in advanced cancer treatment infrastructure, empowering our healthcare system to deliver timely and high-quality care to those in need.

"This initiative is designed to ensure that the new equipment will be supported by a well-trained, capable workforce so that treatment can commence from the day these facilities are ready. By combining cutting-edge technology with skilled personnel, this partnership embodies Mr. President’s vision under the NHSRII for a healthcare system that meets the highest standards of excellence and addresses the real needs of the Nigerian people."

In the statement, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate stated that; "We commend the leadership of Dr Aminu Umar-Sadiq, Managing Director of NSIA, whose commitment to maximizing the impact of public healthcare investments has been instrumental in advancing this project. 

"We also recognize the role of Siemens Healthineers, represented by Ashok Kakkar, Vice President, and Zone Head for the Middle East and Africa, whose partnership has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to Nigeria’s healthcare progress."

The Coordinating Minister emphasized that "this collaboration represents a proactive initiative by the government to enhance cancer treatment services in the country, aiming to provide better healthcare outcomes for patients."

Prof Pate underscored the significance of this partnership, describing it as a strategic move to provide more effective cancer treatment options within Nigeria. 

“This collaboration with Siemens Healthcare is a proactive step by the government to expand access to advanced cancer care and improve healthcare outcomes for our people,” he stated.

Dr. Aminu Umar-Sadiq Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSIA explained the agreement as a huge win for the country as it contains not only the sale and purchase of the Oncology equipment for the six centres but also Siemens Healthcare will train health personnel.

He explained that SIEMENS Healthcare has granted a 30 percent reduction in the price of all equipment purchased adding that the reduction included all equipment to be purchased from now to 2025 that is not covered with the signed agreement.

"Siemens’ provision of a generous 30% discount on equipment, along with a commitment to extensive training for our healthcare professionals and fixed pricing over the transaction period, reflects their long-term dedication to the success of this initiative.

"As we celebrate this achievement, we remain optimistic about the future of healthcare in Nigeria. With the promise of Mr. President, the dedication of our partners, and the unwavering support of stakeholders, we are building a resilient healthcare system that will serve all Nigerians." The statement concluded.