The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate has solicited the support of traditional and religious leaders in shaping a people-centered approach to healthcare in the country.

Speaking at the fourth quarter 2023 review meeting of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee on Primary Healthcare Delivery (NTLC) in Abuja, the minister said that collaboration between the government, traditional institutions, and religious organizations is crucial for improved health outcomes and national unity.

Pate noted that the meeting is a platform for strategies for achieving an efficient, equitable, and high-quality health system adding that with the influence of traditional and religious leaders in healthcare service delivery, government can achieve its ambitious health targets.

He stated that the recent Health Sector Renewal Compact with state governors places health as a priority in Nigeria’s national development and stressed the need for community ownership strengthening the primary healthcare system, training frontline health workers, and utilizing innovation for immunization services.

“The involvement of traditional and religious leaders in shaping perceptions, dispelling myths, and mobilizing communities is recognized as invaluable,” he said.

The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina stressed the need to strengthen PHCs for effective detection, response, and leadership during outbreaks, including local health issues and humanitarian concerns.

Dr. Aina expressed commitment to collaboration with predecessors and strengthening the partnership between NPHCDA and NTLC.

Aina underscored the importance of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine and told the traditional leaders that the vaccine safe and efficient in preventing cervical cancer and commended the traditional leaders for their involvement in championing the HPV vaccination.

He urged the NTLC to actively contribute to expanding fully functional Primary Health Centers (PHCs), equipped to save lives and enhance maternal and child health.

In his remarks, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, said that collaboration is needed to attain healthcare targets and enhance health outcomes in the country .

He expressed support for the health sector renewal investment initiative introduced by the President, expressing optimism in its transformative impact on healthcare delivery.

Chairman of NTLC, HRH Alhj. Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, advocated for capacity building within the traditional institution and clearer mapping of capacities for effective utilization.
[ad unit=2]