(Ecofin Agency) - The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has called for a deeper collaboration with India in terms of expertise and state-of-the-art medical equipment to revive 52 clinics across the country. This is in line with the state-oil company’s plans to diversify into the health care sector.

The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Maikanti Baru (photo), made this proposition last week Thursday in Abuja, during an official visit of the Indian High Commissioner, Nagabushana Reddy. According to him, such cooperation would reduce the trend of medical tourism from Nigeria to other various countries.

He said NNPC has initiated talks with some Indian health care providers to help develop the capacities of its medical staff with the aim of putting in place world class health care facilities in-country.

Baru noted that there has been a symbiotic commercial relationship between Nigeria and India. This relationship resulted in the increase of daily crude oil supply to India to 30,000 barrels per day, this year. “We recognize that India is one of the highest off-takers of Nigeria’s crude oil and we are ready to ensure that this harmonious economic relationship is sustained going forward.”

In his remark, the Indian High Commissioner stated that India was ready to further expand its diverse collaboration in economic, trade, commerce and security with Nigeria.

Anita Fatunji