The World Health Organisation (WHO) has described health promotion as more than just a strategy, calling it a movement that empowers individuals, families and communities to take control of their wellbeing.
Dr. Mya Ngon, Team Lead for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control at WHO Nigeria, made this remark at the Second Quarter National Health Promotion Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting held in Abuja.
She explained that health promotion enables people to prevent disease and foster wellness.
“In line with the principles of the Ottawa Charter and the Sustainable Development Goals, WHO recognises health promotion as a cornerstone for achieving universal health coverage and building resilient health systems.
“As we gather here today to share the experiences and best practices to better coordinate evidence-based and community-driven responses. The National Health Promotion Forum is uniquely positioned to lead this charge.
“WHO reaffirms its commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening institutional capacity for health promotion at all levels, mobilising resources and partnership for sustainable programming,” Dr. Ngon said.
She encouraged all stakeholders to use the forum not just for reporting but as a catalyst for renewed collaboration, planning and impactful action.
“Let this meeting serve not only as a platform for reporting but as a catalyst for renewed collaboration, strategic planning, and impactful action. Together, let us build a healthier Nigeria, where every citizen is empowered to live a life of dignity, wellness, and opportunity,” she added.
Read Also: Kwara Launches 2025 Health Outreach Across Wards
WHO commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for convening the multi-sectoral platform, which continues to shape Nigeria’s health promotion landscape.
Dr. Binyerem Ukaire, Director of the Family Health Department, highlighted the importance of the TWG meeting in reviewing progress, addressing challenges, and setting priorities for health promotion.
“Your contributions are invaluable in shaping effective health promotion strategies. The technical working group plays a pivotal role in driving the national health promotion initiative. By collaborating and sharing insights, we can develop targeted, evidence-based approaches to improve health outcomes across the nation,” Dr. Ukaire said.
He stressed that the collective expertise of stakeholders would ensure Nigeria’s health promotion efforts are comprehensive, inclusive, and impactful.
He outlined the meeting’s objectives as reviewing national goals, sharing updates on ongoing activities, fostering collaboration, and identifying priority areas for intervention.
“The importance of collaboration in national health promotion among government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, and the private sector is crucial. By collaborating, stakeholders can align goals and strategies, pool resources for greater impact, and address complex health challenges more effectively,” he added.
The meeting was facilitated by Dr. Ukaire, represented by John Ovuare, Director of the Gashe Division of the Ministry, alongside the Co-Chairmen of the Health Promotion Technical Working Group, Mr. Auwal Kawu and Dr. Ejike Orji.