Former Minister of Defence, Lt.-Gen Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), has expressed concern over his deteriorating health, describing himself as “a sick old man” while appealing for national unity and loyalty to leaders as the key to economic growth and democratic stability in the country.

   This was as the TY Danjuma Foundation signed a landmark $2.26 million agreement with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to strengthen Nigeria’s national health priorities over the next decade.

   The partnership, formalised yesterday in Abuja, marks a significant step in leveraging African philanthropy to address the country’s health challenges.

   Danjuma, during his turbanning as the Gang Paan Ganye by the Gangwari Ganye, HRH Adamu Sanda, on Saturday in Ganye, Adamawa State, said: “Time is running against me rapidly. As you can see, I am a sick old man.”

   The elder statesman called on Nigerians, particularly the people of Adamawa, to remain loyal to their leaders, adding that peace and development will remain elusive unless citizens unite behind their leaders with loyalty and cooperation.

   Danjuma, who chaired the silver jubilee of the leadership by the Gangwari Ganye, also praised traditional rulers for their pivotal role in community peace-building and conflict resolution.

   In his goodwill message, Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, lauded traditional leaders as bridge-builders and affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to their peace-building efforts.

   Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa echoed similar sentiments, noting that his administration enjoyed strong backing from the traditional institution, particularly in maintaining peace and supporting agricultural development in the region.

THE fully flexible funding of the foundation’s partnership will support the WHO Country Office in Nigeria’s work plan until December 2034, enabling strategic resource allocation to tackle evolving health needs. It will prioritise expanding access to integrated health services for women, children and vulnerable populations in the states of Taraba (North East), Edo (South-South) and Enugu (South East).

   Established in 2009, the TY Danjuma Foundation is a Nigerian philanthropic organisation dedicated to improving health and education. With state offices in Taraba and Edo, the foundation supports local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to deliver impactful community programmes.  

“We are proud to partner with WHO to advance Nigeria’s health priorities,” said Danjuma. “This agreement reflects our dedication to improving lives and fostering sustainable development in our communities.”

   The signing ceremony at the WHO Office in Abuja brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Taraba government, the diplomatic community and other partners committed to advancing health in Nigeria.  

   Emphasising the national significance of the collaboration, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, stated: “This agreement is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to health equity. We welcome the collaboration with WHO and TY Danjuma Foundation to deliver sustainable, high-impact health solutions.”