By Mercy Gadia
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, will on Monday host a high-level health security dialogue with the People’s Republic of China on pandemic preparedness and response.
The event, scheduled for March 30, 2026, in Abuja, is titled “Lessons on Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Insights from China and Nigeria.”
According to a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations, Ado Bako, the dialogue will convene senior government officials, global health institutions, policymakers, and scientists from both countries.
The ministry said the meeting comes as nations continue to strengthen their readiness for future health emergencies following the COVID-19 pandemic.
It stated, “The dialogue will provide a platform to share practical lessons and advance cooperation towards more resilient health systems.”
The statement noted that discussions would centre on strengthening disease surveillance and early warning systems, improving emergency response coordination, and enhancing health system resilience.
Other key areas include building community trust, improving risk communication, and advancing international collaboration for pandemic preparedness.
The ministry added that the engagement would also explore opportunities to deepen Nigeria–China cooperation in public health research and innovation, laboratory systems, pathogen surveillance, technology transfer, and capacity development.
It further stated, “The dialogue is expected to generate policy recommendations to strengthen pandemic preparedness, enhance bilateral collaboration between Nigeria and China, and provide strategic insights to inform national and global health security priorities.”
The event will feature opening remarks by senior government officials, a keynote address by a global health expert, panel discussions involving Nigerian and international stakeholders, as well as a post-event press briefing.