AYV News, July 11, 2024

Past weekend, Frank Azuike, the Charge D’Affaires at the Nigerian High Commission in Sierra Leone, officially welcomed and handed over 14 medical volunteers from the Nigeria Technical Aid Corps (TAC) to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation.

These volunteers are part of an 18-member contingent, with the remaining participants expected to join shortly. The current group will serve in Sierra Leone from 2024 to 2026.

Established in 1987, TAC is a Nigerian initiative that provides technical expertise to various African and Caribbean nations. Sierra Leone has been a significant beneficiary of this program, with Nigerian medical professionals playing a crucial role in aiding local communities and saving lives.

At a welcome dinner held at the Nigerian High Commission in Freetown, Azuike highlighted the critical importance of healthcare and the robust relationship between Nigeria and Sierra Leone, which began with the TAC agreement in 2009.

“This is not merely an act of assistance; it is a powerful testament to our shared humanity and unwavering commitment to our solidarity. Health transcends borders and is a cornerstone of human dignity. In this, we are to be our brother’s keeper,” Azuike remarked.

He encouraged the medical volunteers to fulfill their mission with dedication, make a tangible impact, and serve as ambassadors of hope by enhancing health and well-being in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Sierra Leonean government for Nigeria’s long-standing support, particularly in the medical sector. He emphasized the strong relationship between the two nations and Nigeria’s vital role in training many Sierra Leonean professionals.

Dr. Kabba also noted the pressing need for specialists in Sierra Leone and revealed that the government has recently constructed state-of-the-art children’s hospitals, with plans to build four more advanced hospitals in the provinces.