In a bold move to bolster Nigeria’s health workforce, the Nigerian government has signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Achievers University, Owo, and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, in Ondo State.
The agreement, formalised at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Abuja, enables Achievers University to utilise FMC Owo’s facilities for the clinical training of its medical, nursing, and allied health students—a step aimed at enhancing medical education and scaling up healthcare workforce production.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, who witnessed the signing, described the MoU as a “timely and strategic partnership” that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed health agenda.
“This MoU exemplifies the vision of Mr. President to harness private investment in education and health to benefit Nigerians.
“Private institutions like Achievers University are critical partners in addressing human resource gaps in our health system,” Dr Salako said.
Read Also: Health Mandate Secretary Announces Hospital Expansion Plans Across FCT
Dr Salako further underscored the urgent need to expand training opportunities for healthcare professionals, particularly in light of the ongoing migration of medical personnel abroad
He noted that the government is developing strategies to transform this brain drain into a mutually beneficial relationship by engaging destination countries to support Nigeria’s health sector.
A Landmark for Private Medical Education
Prof. Bode Ayorinde, founder and pro-chancellor of Achievers University, hailed the agreement as a landmark moment in the university’s development. He praised the process as transparent and devoid of any political interference.
“Today’s agreement is a promise to raise the bar in medical training. We’re building beyond regulations to ensure quality,” he said.
FMC Owo Ready for Expanded Training Role
Dr Hamed Liasu, Medical Director of FMC Owo, confirmed the hospital’s readiness to serve as a clinical training hub, stating that it already trains resident doctors in 11 departments and is fully accredited by both national and West African medical colleges.
“We will collaborate with Achievers University to train undergraduate students in medical laboratory and nursing sciences. The university is also working to upgrade FMC Owo into a teaching hospital,” he said.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Health, Achievers University, and FMC Owo.