The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Tuesday initiated high-level discussions with Airbus in France for the procurement of emergency care helicopters.
This was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and it is part of a broader plan to establish an Integrated National Ground-to-Air Health Emergency Management System in Nigeria.
“This emergency Helicopters is to strengthen Nigeria healthcare response system,” the minister said.
During the visit, Prof. Pate inspected an Airbus Emergency Medical Helicopter at a French government-supported air ambulance facility in Lyon, where he highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to modernising its emergency medical services.
He states that the proposed system would significantly improve rapid response capabilities, particularly in hard-to-reach areas, while reducing mortality associated with delayed access to critical care.
Prof. Pate added that the initiative is expected to integrate air and ground emergency services, ensuring timely evacuation and treatment of patients during medical emergencies and disasters across Nigeria.
Officials said the partnership with Airbus marks a major step towards building a resilient and responsive healthcare system aligned with global best practices.
The development underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and emergency preparedness nationwide.
