Oluwatobi Adu 
WHO-DG, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
ABUJA, Nigeria – The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that the United States’ notification of withdrawal from the global health body risks undermining both national and international health security.
In a statement on Saturday, WHO expresses deep regret over the decision, stressing that the United States remains a founding member whose contributions significantly shape major global public health achievements.
WHO confirms that the withdrawal notice will be reviewed by its Executive Board on 2 February and later by the World Health Assembly in May 2026.
The organisation firmly rejects claims by the US that it compromised independence or pursued politicised agendas, insisting it engages all 194 member states in good faith and respects national sovereignty.
Addressing criticism of its COVID-19 response, WHO acknowledges that no institution responded perfectly but defends its actions as timely and evidence-based. WHO Warns US Exit Threatens Global Health Security
“We shared information as it became available and issued guidance grounded in science,” WHO states, noting it recommended masks, vaccines and distancing but never mandated lockdowns or compulsory measures.
WHO recalls that it alerted the global community in late December 2019 following reports of pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan, convening experts and issuing guidance before the virus spread internationally.
The agency also dismisses allegations of bias against American interests, reaffirming its neutrality as a specialised United Nations body.
Despite the withdrawal notice, WHO reiterates its commitment to global cooperation, highlighting the WHO Pandemic Agreement adopted in 2025 and ongoing negotiations on pathogen-sharing systems.
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Korede Abdullah 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Otamere Gladness