Mediaage NG News – ABUJA, Nigeria (Friday 17th May, 2024)
The West African Health Organization (WAHO) said the need to engage quality human resources in the health sector must be aimed at achieving effective healthcare outcomes.
This is in consonance with the objective of the organization on health norms and standard of health quality for human care, respecting human health rights.
Dr. Aissi Melchior Athanase Joel, the Director General of WAHO revealed this a meeting converging health experts, which is part of the technical sessions for the 25th Ordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Assembly of Health Ministers (AHM).
On achieving the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs in the African sub-region, Dr.Aisssi said it’s just five years to the deadline.
“Therefore, the pressure is mounting on all States in general and those of the ECOWAS region particularly, considering the progress made and the effective evidence of mechanisms and approaches capable of strengthening and amplifying the effects of our actions in the hope of achieving the expected results in the long term”, he said.
He advised member countries to comply with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation on breastfeeding up to the age of 6 months, which is one of the most effective ways of preserving health and ensuring child survival.
Director, Health, Planning, Research and Statistics (HPRS) Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwa, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services across all communities.
“Nigeria, as one of the largest and most populous countries in the region, offers unique perspectives and challenges in delivering healthcare services evident in the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative which is designed to reduce physical and financial pains and produce health for all Nigerians”, Dr. Isokpunwa who is also the Chairman, Health Experts Committee stated.
According to him, there is need to address persistent health issues such as maternal and child health infectious diseases and the emerging threat of non-communicable diseases.
He noted that the National Health Insurance Scheme, being reorganized, is aimed at expanding coverage and reducing out-of-pocket expenses of healthcare.
He further called on countries to prioritize the health and well-being of every individual in our region.
“Together, through collaboration, innovation and shared resources, we can overcome challenges, strengthen health systems and build a brighter, healthier future for all West Africans as well as chart the course for an innovative West Africa”, he stated.