Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Development, Prof.
Muhammad Ali Pate
By Abujah Racheal
The 64th National Council on Health(NCH), has approved the setting aside of a day for Health Promotion in what analysts see as a significant decision that will positively impact the nation’s healthcare system.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the council unanimously approved the establishment of the special day on Thursday in Ekiti.
Speaking on the development, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Development, Prof.
Muhammad Ali Pate, said that the landmark decision aims at prioritising and enhancing the overall well-being of Nigerians by raising awareness about health issues.
The Day will also focus on promoting preventive measures, he added.
The NCH, an apex policymaking body in the Nigerian health sector, convenes every year with key leaders such as Permanent Secretaries, health commissioners, heads of health-related outfits brought together to discuss health-related issues.
The theme for this year’s NCH is “Building a Resilient and Inclusive Healthcare System for a Healthy Nigeria”.
It aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu government and underscores the significance of a robust healthcare system.
“With this new initiative, the country is taking a proactive step towards improving the health and quality of life of its citizens.
“The commemoration of Health Promotion in Nigeria aims to raise awareness, educate and engage the population in taking proactive measures to improve their overall well-being,” he said.
The minister said that there should be school-based initiatives in collaboration with educational institutions to incorporate health promotion into the curriculum, thereby promoting healthy habits among students and fostering a culture of wellness.
“This will bring about establishment of partnerships with healthcare providers, NGOs, community-based organisations and corporate entities to maximise the impact of health promotion initiatives through joint efforts and resource sharing.
“Guidance, support and resources will be provided by the Federal Ministry of Health, which will ensure the successful implementation of health promotion programmes,” he said.
He said that the commemoration of Health Promotion Day aims to inspire behaviour change by encouraging individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles.
“By highlighting the benefits of healthy eating, regular physical activity, mental well-being, and disease prevention, it motivates people to make positive changes in their lives,” he said.
(www.
nannews.
ng)
Edited by AbdulFatai Beki and Ephraims Sheyin