‘Economic situation compels people to return to unhealthy habits, hindering clinical progress’

With over a decade experience across public health, nursing, and broadcast media, Funmi Eko Ezeh, is a professional with unique ability to navigate complex health issues while utilising media platforms to engage, educate, and inspire diverse audiences.Funmi has used her career in nursing to hone a deep understanding of patient care, healthcare systems, and the importance of public health initiatives. She runs RedConnectNg a social impact outfit that focuses on improving the healthcare of the less privileged through free clinical outreaches, advocacy and empowering healthcare workers. In this interview with GOODNESS AMADI, she speaks about combining media and health practice, as well as habits limiting.

Growing up, what was your motivation to work as a health professional?

During my childhood, my dreams and aspirations were heavily influenced by the vibrant and diverse environment where I was raised. As a “barrack girl,” I had the unique opportunity to experience the cultural richness of military life firsthand. My father, Bola Eko, served in the Nigerian Army, while my mother, Sabina Eko, worked as a civilian administrator with the Ministry of Defence. This upbringing exposed me to various perspectives and nurtured my passion for people, culture, and community.

From a young age, I was fascinated by the broadcasting world. Watching Eugenia Abu present the evening news with such grace and confidence inspired me to follow in her footsteps. She became my role model as I frequently practiced mimicking her delivery before a mirror. These moments of self-expression were pivotal, igniting a passion for communication that ultimately shaped my career path.nMy parents greatly influenced my intellectual curiosity and passion for learning. Every Sunday, our family would gather to read newspapers and discuss worldwide events.

My father’s emphasis on staying informed inspired me to look beyond my immediate surroundings. This tradition expanded my comprehension of global issues and fostered a strong sense of duty to make meaningful contributions to society.As I grew older, my interests widened from communication to a deep-seated concern for health and wellness. I came to understand that health is the cornerstone of life; when it falters, everything else—including goals, relationships, and opportunities—grinds to a halt. This insight inspired me to pursue a career in public health, where I could merge my communication expertise with dedication toward tackling the health issues encountered by individuals and communities alike.

Take us through your educational background and work.

With nearly two decades of dynamic and impactful experience across public health, nursing, and broadcast media, I am a seasoned communication specialist, facilitator, and public speaker. My journey into this multifaceted career has been driven by my passion for fostering meaningful change in the lives of others and ensuring access to essential information and services.My educational journey began at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), where I gained a foundational understanding of media and communication. My training there enabled me to work with some of Nigeria’s leading broadcasting and media establishments, such as Raypower/AIT, Rainbow FM, and Indicator Media. Through these platforms, I honed my communication skills, collaborated with industry professionals, and hosted and produced programs for major brands and organisations, including MTN and the Lagos State Government.

However, my curiosity and passion for societal impact led me to further my education in public health. I pursued a Master’s degree in Public Health at Imo State University, where I explored the intersections of health, society, and communication. This academic pursuit deepened my understanding of public health systems and the importance of equitably addressing the healthcare needs of communities.As my career evolved, I made a pivotal decision to transition into nursing after relocating to the United States. This decision was fueled by a desire to make a more direct and tangible impact on the lives of individuals. Nursing provided me with a practical platform to combine my public health expertise with hands-on patient care. This transition was seamless due to my ability to connect with people, a skill I attribute to my broadcasting background.

The creation of my foundation, RedConnectNG, in 2014, was a natural extension of my combined passions for public health and communication. RedConnectNG’s mission is rooted in addressing the healthcare gaps faced by underserved communities in Nigeria. Over the years, we have provided free medical procedures to low-income Nigerians through initiatives like the Bola Eko Health Drive.In recognition of my contributions to public health and media, I have received numerous accolades and opportunities. I am a member of the American Public Health Association, the American Heart Foundation, and Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ).

I was honored with the “Salute of Excellence” award by Missouri City, Texas, and recognised by the American Caribbean Chamber of Commerce for my advocacy for global diaspora development.As an author, I wrote Everyday with Sickle Cell, a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals living with sickle cell anemia manage their health and achieve stability. This publication reflects my commitment to addressing the needs of marginalized communities and creating resources that inspire resilience and informed decision-making.

How have you effectively combined nursing and broadcasting?

The fusion of nursing and broadcasting in my career is a testament to the versatility and interconnectedness of these fields. While they may seem distinct, both professions are fundamentally rooted in communication, connection, and advocacy.In healthcare, effective communication is critical for delivering quality care. As a nurse, I am responsible for ensuring that patients understand their diagnoses, treatment plans, and the steps they need to take to improve their health.

My broadcasting background has equipped me with the skills to convey complex information in a clear, concise, and relatable manner.Listening is another essential aspect of effective healthcare delivery. By asking open-ended questions and creating a safe space for patients to share their experiences, I can uncover valuable insights that often lead to accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. Storytelling, in particular, is a powerful tool for building trust and fostering understanding. It allows patients to see themselves as active participants in their care, which increases engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

Broadcasting has also provided me with a platform to raise awareness about critical health issues.Through media campaigns and public speaking engagements, I have been able to share real-life stories, promote preventive measures, and dispel misinformation. This dual approach—combining the personal touch of nursing with the broad reach of broadcasting—has allowed me to make a meaningful impact on both individual and community health.

What has been the impact of the media in the healthcare landscape?

The media is a powerful catalyst for change in the healthcare landscape. It serves as a bridge between healthcare professionals and the public, ensuring that accurate and timely information reaches those who need it most.One of the media’s primary responsibilities is to educate and inform. Whether it’s raising awareness about preventive measures, promoting healthy lifestyles, or disseminating information about new medical advancements, the media plays a crucial role in empowering individuals to take charge of their health.

It also serves as a watchdog, holding healthcare systems and policymakers accountable for their actions and decisions.In times of crisis, such as during a pandemic, the media becomes an essential lifeline, providing updates, dispelling misinformation, and fostering a sense of community resilience. By leveraging the power of media, we can drive positive change and improve health outcomes on a global scale.

Through RedConnectNGNg, how are you improving health outcomes?

At RedConnectNG, our mission is rooted in the belief that knowledge is a powerful tool for transforming lives. One of our key initiatives is to simplify health messages, making them accessible and actionable for individuals and communities.For example, promoting handwashing—a simple yet effective practice—can significantly reduce disease transmission. However, many people are unaware of its importance or do not practice it consistently. Through targeted campaigns and community outreach, we emphasize the importance of basic hygiene and preventive measures.

Our work extends beyond education. We organise monthly health visits to public spaces, providing free medical checkups, consultations, and treatments. These visits focus on managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, which are prevalent in many communities. By equipping individuals with practical health tips and resources, we empower them to take control of their health and lead healthier lives.Through partnerships with platforms like HUDIBIA and Lagos State General Hospital, we provide real-time access to medical professionals and critical care services. Our initiatives aim to reduce healthcare disparities by addressing the root causes of preventable illnesses and empowering communities with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.

What in your opinion needs to improve in Nigeria’s public health sector in the coming years?

Nigeria’s public health sector has enormous potential, yet it faces various systemic and cultural challenges that need to be addressed for significant progress in the future. While our culture is rich and beautiful, it can sometimes impede healthcare access. Some cultural practices support health objectives, but many are not aligned with them. These misalignments often hinder the adoption of healthier behaviors and highlight the necessity for ongoing education and awareness campaigns. Changing lifestyles takes time and repetition; therefore, people should frequently receive health messages alongside seeing concrete evidence that these recommendations truly work.

A major obstacle is the financial challenge that many Nigerians encounter. Adopting a healthier lifestyle often incurs higher costs, whether it’s obtaining nutritious food or buying prescribed medications. For numerous individuals, more affordable but less healthy options are typically their only feasible choices. This economic situation frequently compels people to return to unhealthy habits, hindering progress. To bridge this gap, we need strategies that make healthier choices both affordable and accessible for everyone, ensuring sustainable improvement.

Another crucial aspect is adherence to healthcare guidelines. Many individuals struggle to follow prescribed health regimens due to misinformation or a lack of trust in the healthcare system. It is essential to build confidence in medical advice by promoting transparent, community-based healthcare education that aligns with people’s lived experiences.

One of the most pressing challenges is reaching those who are underserved. Many Nigerians reside in rural areas that lack reliable electricity, modern technology, and functional healthcare facilities. These communities frequently fall behind, depending on outdated practices and facing preventable health issues. There is a need for customized interventions to bring healthcare directly to them, equipping these populations with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed choices.

Additionally, Nigeria needs to prioritize investment in healthcare infrastructure and public health communication to extend its reach to even the most isolated regions. The aim should be to guarantee that every Nigerian, irrespective of their location or income level, has access to essential healthcare services, preventive strategies, and education necessary for making healthier decisions.

Improving Nigeria’s public health sector necessitates a comprehensive strategy that includes dismantling cultural barriers, tackling economic inequalities, and focusing on rural outreach. By equipping communities with the necessary knowledge and resources, we can establish an inclusive healthcare system that serves all citizens. When individuals are informed and equipped to act wisely, they lay the groundwork for building a healthier Nigeria where no one is left behind.

How Can We Empower More Women to Succeed and Rise to the Top?

Women already take on a significant amount of work, often excelling in ways that are understated or underappreciated. The challenge lies not in proving their worth but in amplifying their voices and recognizing that the work they do consistently meets—and often surpasses—any standard. Women should stop doubting their abilities or undervaluing their contributions—they are more than enough.

Every mother, sister, and grandmother can be considered informal healthcare providers. As the frontline caregivers, they offer comfort and solutions well before a doctor is even sought out. These women naturally become problem-solvers, caretakers, and advocates for their families and communities. While these inherent skills are present in abundance, what often lacks is formal recognition along with education and opportunities to translate these abilities into professional careers—whether as social workers or nurses; phlebotomists or EKG technicians; doctors or gynecologists; epidemiologists beyond it all.

Our priority should be to develop systems and opportunities that enable women to leverage their strengths and expand upon them. This involves providing access to education, mentorship, and resources essential for their success. I wholeheartedly believe in the impact of mentorship and am personally dedicated to mentoring, encouraging, and guiding any woman ready to embark on this journey. Success isn’t given freely—it demands effort, resilience, and a willingness to embrace opportunities. For those prepared to strive towards it, I am committed to helping amplify their potential.

My journey has been immensely influenced by the remarkable women and mentors who have uplifted and inspired me. Eugenia Abu offered a glimpse of what was possible in my media aspirations. Extraordinary individuals such as Yemi Adenuga, Dorcas Awuru-Martins, Debbie Odutayo, alongside the incredible women at Daar Communications, opened many doors for me. My growth continued under Dennis Ogi’s mentorship and support; he remains an invaluable coach and guide to this day.
Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed to find self-discovery through the influence of remarkable women such as Dame Comfort Obi, Shirley Faponle, Lilian Imoni, Yemisi Jebutu-Tillman, OnyinyeOkenwan, Stella Damasus, NnennaUneke, Ndidi Nwunelli, Dr. GbonjubolaAbiri, Remi Ibinola and Candace Robertson, among many others. These inspiring individuals have shown me the value of forging connections and building bridges while extending a helping hand to those around us.

This collaborative endeavor, where women support and uplift one another, is the key to creating enduring change. Success isn’t achieved alone; we all benefit from the groundwork laid by those before us. It’s our duty to offer a similar foundation for future generations. By empowering women, whole families, communities, and societies gain strength. United in this mission, we can dismantle obstacles, reshape stories of achievement and ensure that more women not only reach leadership but also flourish there. We must elevate the voices of women everywhere, unlock all opportunities for them, and ensure they never walk this path alone. Empowerment is a collective duty, not a privilege.