The Federal Government of Nigeria has restated its commitment to strengthening preventive healthcare across the country as part of its strategy to reduce avoidable diseases and improve citizens’ wellbeing.

This reaffirmation was made by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare during a briefing ahead of the upcoming National Health Promotion Day, scheduled to take place on October 29, 2025. The event will focus on improving health literacy, promoting wellness, and encouraging Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Dr. Binyerem Ukaire, Director of the Family Health Department, explained that the government’s approach now prioritizes prevention over treatment, noting that it is “both cost-effective and sustainable.” She added that the Ministry is partnering with state and local governments, NGOs, and private stakeholders to create lasting health awareness across all communities.

Activities marking the national observance will include wellness walks, community health campaigns, school-based education programs, and technical sessions designed to promote early detection and lifestyle modification.

Focus on Early Detection and Community Health

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, stated that the government is introducing stronger preventive programs in the 2025 health sector budget. These include improved funding for cancer screening, maternal health interventions, and public education initiatives on non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

According to Dr. Salako, the goal is to reduce the national burden of preventable diseases by encouraging citizens to take proactive measures. “Every Nigerian has a role to play in building a healthier nation. Prevention is not just a government effort — it’s a collective responsibility,” he said.

Public health experts have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely shift in a country where hospital facilities are often overstretched due to late diagnosis and limited access to primary care.

The renewed focus on preventive healthcare, the ministry said, reflects the government’s long-term goal of achieving universal health coverage and reducing dependency on curative medicine.