Nigeria has validated a new National Health Promotion and Communication Strategic Framework aimed at establishing a coordinated, evidence-based approach to health communication across the country.
The framework was validated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) Nigeria), following consultations with stakeholders across the health sector.
The initiative is designed to bring various national health programmes under a unified communication framework to improve the quality, consistency and effectiveness of health messages delivered to Nigerians.
Health stakeholders noted that access to accurate and timely health information is essential to helping individuals and communities make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.
The framework is expected to promote clearer and more consistent health messaging while strengthening public confidence in official health information. It will also provide guidance for health workers, government institutions and community stakeholders on effective health promotion and communication practices.
Stakeholders said the framework would help address fragmented health messaging by improving coordination across national health programmes and different levels of government.
The initiative is supported by WHO Nigeria, with funding from the Global Fund, as part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s health system and improve access to credible health information.
The framework is also expected to support public health campaigns, disease prevention initiatives and community engagement, particularly during health emergencies and disease outbreaks.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the coordinated approach would improve public understanding of health issues, encourage healthier behaviours and strengthen communities’ ability to make informed decisions.
The validation marks another step in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen health promotion and communication as key components of universal health coverage and the broader goal of Health for All.
COURTESY: lagostelevision.com
