Odita Sunday 
ADC Seeks Clarity on Nigeria–U.S. Health Agreement, Cites Sovereignty, Discrimination Risks
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has asked the Federal Government to clarify the contents of the recently signed health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and the United States.
The party said conflicting public descriptions of the agreement by both governments have created uncertainty over its true scope and implications.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC said Nigeria’s official explanation differs significantly from that issued by the United States.
According to the party, the Federal Government described the MoU as a technical framework to improve health security and primary healthcare delivery.
However, ADC said statements from the United States Embassy introduced identity-based elements, suggesting that spending under the agreement may favour institutions linked to a particular religion.
The party warned that such framing could breach Nigeria’s constitutional provisions on non-discrimination and national unity.
ADC also expressed concern over reports that the MoU grants the United States unilateral powers to pause or terminate cooperation, a clause it said was missing from Nigeria’s public account.
The party argued that the divergence appears deliberate and aimed at limiting public scrutiny of the agreement.
“Nigerians are entitled to know which version of this agreement reflects the actual terms that were signed,” Abdullahi said.
While welcoming foreign support for Nigeria’s healthcare system, ADC insisted that all partnerships must comply with constitutional guarantees of inclusion and equality.
The party cited Section 42(1) of the Constitution, which prohibits discrimination, as well as provisions mandating national integration.
ADC also questioned the financial balance of the agreement, noting that Nigeria is reportedly committing more funds than the United States under the MoU.
It warned that introducing identity considerations into healthcare delivery could politicise public services and undermine trust.
The party called on the Federal Government to publish the full MoU and explain how it aligns with constitutional requirements and Nigeria’s sovereign interests.
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