Stakeholders in the health sector and journalists converged at the 8th Annual Conference of the Association of Nigeria Health Journalists (ANHeJ) in Abuja to discuss strategies for improving health outcomes in Nigeria.
The conference, themed “Sector-Wide Approach Effectiveness in Addressing Poor Health Outcomes: The Role of the Media,” emphasized the importance of collaboration between the media and health stakeholders to address the nation’s pressing health challenges.
In her goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, praised health journalists for their advocacy and public enlightenment efforts.
Kachollom highlighted key government initiatives like the Maternal and Newborn Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII) and the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), which have improved access to primary healthcare in underserved communities.
“The media plays an essential role in countering misinformation, promoting health awareness, and ensuring transparency. Together, we can achieve a healthier and more informed Nigeria”, she said.
On his part, CEO of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Dr. Patrick Dakum, lauded the media’s contributions to public health.
Dakum who was represented by Dr. Charles Imoghe, detailed IHVN’s achievements, including providing HIV services to millions and implementing programs to combat tuberculosis.
He noted that sustained media advocacy has been instrumental in raising awareness and increasing the uptake of health services.
Meanwhile, ANHeJ President Joseph Kadiri, highlighted the media’s potential to amplify government efforts and draw attention to gaps in the health sector. He called for capacity building for health journalists and improved access to data to enhance their job.
The conference also provided a platform for stakeholders to review progress on health sector reforms, such as the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), aimed at improving coordination and accountability in healthcare delivery.
Supported by organizations such as NAFDAC, Roche, and Alliance Hospital, the event serve as a renewed commitment to collaboration and advocacy to drive better health outcomes across the country.
