Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for increased investment in science and the strengthening of health systems as the world marks World Health Day 2026.

In her message commemorating the day, themed “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” she stressed that sustainable progress in healthcare depends on innovation, research, and robust collaboration across nations and sectors.

The First Lady noted that scientific partnerships have played a pivotal role in tackling global health challenges and remain essential to improving quality of life worldwide.

She underscored the need to build resilient and inclusive health systems capable of responding effectively to emerging threats.

Highlighting the importance of the One Health approach, she said the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant, and environmental health must be recognised as a critical pathway to achieving long-term health security.

She urged governments, stakeholders, and the international community to prioritise investments in scientific research and healthcare infrastructure, while fostering partnerships that can deliver improved health outcomes.

“As a global community, we must continue to support science, invest in our health systems, and work together to build a healthier and more resilient world for all,” she said.

She also extended goodwill to Nigerians and the global community on the occasion.

World Health Day is observed annually on April 7 to mark the founding of the World Health Organization in 1948.

The commemoration began in 1950 following a resolution of the first World Health Assembly to spotlight key global health priorities each year.

The World Health Organization selects an annual theme and coordinates activities worldwide to raise awareness on critical issues such as disease prevention and access to care.

Last year’s theme, “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures,” focused on maternal and newborn health, aiming to reduce preventable deaths and improve women’s well-being.

This year’s theme emphasises scientific collaboration to address pressing challenges, including nutrition, epidemics, and mental health, through global innovation, with governments, NGOs, and communities organising campaigns and public engagements to promote healthier societies and equitable access to care.