Health Sector Reform: Perm Sec Calls For Accuracy In Journalism, Highlights Achievements

ABUJA – The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Mrs Kachollom Shangti Daju has urged journalists to ensure factual and responsible reporting, emphasizing the role of accurate information in shaping public perception and advancing healthcare reforms.

Speaking at an engagement with health correspondents on Wednesday in Abuja, the she underscored the ministry’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery, citing key reforms under the sector-wide approach. “Our job is to save lives. If we do not tell the right stories about the lives being impacted, then we are not fulfilling the mandate of the government,” she stated.

Acknowledging the increasing scrutiny on the health sector, she highlighted significant developments, including the introduction of the National Health Index and increased budgetary allocations. “The health budget has seen improvements, and expectations are high. We see healthcare professionals not just as service providers but as activists for the common good,” she added.

She further outlined the ministry’s four-point agenda, which includes improving governance, enhancing health outcomes, unlocking the healthcare value chain, and strengthening health security. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a scheme it is a movement to transform the health sector for quality care. Every citizen deserves good healthcare, and we are working to ensure that,” she emphasized.

Daju also pointed to the recent presentation of the state of health reforms to President Bola Tinubu, detailing progress made under the 774 Primary Healthcare Centres revitalization initiative. She called on journalists to report not only challenges but also successes, such as improved hospital services and the dedication of healthcare workers.

While addressing the role of the media in combating misinformation, she referenced past vaccine-related controversies, urging reporters to verify facts before publication. “Perception is powerful, and misinformation can be dangerous. Let us fight fake news together, especially on critical health matters,” she stated.

She assured journalists of the ministry’s support, announcing upcoming training programs for health correspondents. “We are partners in healthcare reform. Your reports influence public trust and policy direction, so let’s work together to highlight the true state of our healthcare system,” she concluded.

The session ended with an appeal for continued collaboration between the ministry and the media to drive sustainable healthcare transformation across Nigeria.