The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Federal Government to publish the complete text of the recently signed Nigeria‑United States health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The party says there’s a stark mismatch between Abuja’s description of the deal as a “technical, inclusive framework” and Washington’s statements that frame the agreement around Christian faith‑based providers, with about *$200 million earmarked for 900 Christian clinics and hospitals*.
According to the ADC, the MoU commits the United States to roughly *$2 billion in grant support over five years*, while Nigeria is expected to contribute nearly *$3 billion in domestic health financing* during the same period. Yet, U.S. officials have hinted at “identity‑based” conditions and even unilateral termination rights, elements that are absent from Nigeria’s public summary. The party warns that such religious‑centric language could breach Section 42(1) of Nigeria’s Constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on religion, and could undermine national unity.
In a statement issued by ADC National Publicity Secretary *Bolaji Abdullahi*, the party urged the government to “come clean” by releasing the full MoU, any annexes, and a clear explanation of whether the faith‑based and security‑linked clauses are part of the actual agreement or merely foreign‑policy rhetoric. The ADC also questioned why Nigeria would shoulder the larger financial burden while key decisions on beneficiaries and termination appear to rest with the U.S.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate about transparency, constitutional compliance, and Nigeria’s sovereignty in international health partnerships. Stakeholders are now waiting for an official response from the Federal Ministry of Health and the Presidency.
