The Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to establish a Geographic Information System (GIS) database and health surveillance checkpoints across over 1,600 border entry points in Nigeria.
This initiative was announced during a strategic meeting between both agencies in Abuja.
The collaboration aims to prevent the outbreak and spread of communicable diseases in border regions.
Dr. George Kelly, Executive Secretary of BCDA, highlighted the importance of the partnership in improving healthcare delivery, addressing security risks, and curbing smuggling in underserved border areas.
He noted the agency’s commitment to providing essential services such as clean water, healthcare, education, and security through sustainable, green energy solutions.
Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, emphasized that healthier border communities are vital for national and regional stability.
He also cited BCDA’s role in supporting cross-border health initiatives like the Chad Basin Ministers’ collaboration.
The meeting concluded with the formation of joint working groups to coordinate efforts in disease surveillance, port health services, capacity building, water supply, and hygiene promotion.
Reporting by Azizatu Sani