The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong caution to the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the recently announced Nigeria-United States health cooperation agreement.
The party expresses deep concerns that the pact's apparent emphasis on Christian-based provisions may undermine Nigeria's constitutional principles of inclusion, transparency, and national sovereignty.
The agreement, valued at approximately $5.1 billion, is intended to expand access to essential preventive and curative health services, including programs targeting HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, and family planning.
While the ADC acknowledges the potential benefits of strengthening Nigeria's healthcare system, it warns that any foreign aid perceived as favoring specific religious groups could sow seeds of division in a multi-religious nation like Nigeria.
"The Federal Government must provide full clarity on the terms of this US health deal to ensure it aligns with our secular constitution and promotes unity rather than exclusion," said Ralph Okey Nwosu, National Chairman of the ADC.
"We cannot afford agreements that risk eroding public trust or compromising our sovereignty in the name of international cooperation. President Tinubu's administration should prioritize transparent, inclusive policies that benefit all Nigerians equally."
The ADC calls for an immediate review and public disclosure of the agreement's details to address these apprehensions. The party urges the government to engage stakeholders from all religious and ethnic backgrounds in future bilateral negotiations to prevent any perception of bias.
The ADC remains committed to advocating for good governance, national unity, and equitable development in Nigeria. As an opposition party, it will continue to hold the administration accountable on matters of public interest.