By Alice Etuka, Abuja
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate has counselled Nigerians to adopt healthy lifestyles, prioritise preventive healthcare measures, and seek timely medical attention when necessary.
Director information of the ministry,
Patricia Deworitshe disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, April 7, 2024.
She said, Pate gave the counsel in his message commemorating the 2024 World Health Day.
World Health Day is celebrated on the 7th of April every year to raise awareness of global health issues. The theme for this year is “My Health, My Right”.
According to the Minister, The right to health is not just a lofty ideal; it is a fundamental human right enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Yet, for millions of Nigerians, accessing quality healthcare remains a challenge.
In response to this pressing issue, Pate said the Federal Government of Nigeria has implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting equitable access to healthcare services and ensuring that every Nigerian can exercise their right to health.
He noted that through targeted government initiatives such as Basic Health Care Provision Fund, (BHCPF) and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal and Investment Initiative and strategic partnerships, we are reaching remote and underserved communities, providing essential healthcare services and promoting health education.
Also, through the BHCPF, the government is strengthening primary healthcare delivery, improving infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of essential drugs and commodities in health facilities across the country.
According to the Minister, the Primary healthcare remains the centre of our focus and this administration is determined more than ever before to ensure the delivery of quality, efficient and affordable health care through the Primary Health Care Facilities.
However, we recognize that there is still much work to be done. Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, healthcare worker shortages, and persistent health disparities continue to impact the health and well-being of our citizens. As we commemorate World Health Day, we urge all stakeholders to join hands in addressing these challenges and advancing the right to health for every Nigerian.
Adding that while the government continues to invest in improving healthcare infrastructure and services, the responsibility for health ultimately rests with each individual.
‘We must take proactive steps to safeguard our health and well-being by adopting healthy lifestyles, prioritizing preventive healthcare measures, and seeking timely medical attention when necessary. It is only through collective action and mutual support that we can achieve the vision of a healthier Nigeria for all”.
