Nigeria's Health Minister Advocates for Preventive Healthcare

On 29 October 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria called for increased public participation in preventive healthcare during the 2026 National Health Promotion Day in Abuja. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom S. mni, emphasized the need for Nigerians to take responsibility for their health through preventive measures, early disease detection, and healthy lifestyles.

He highlighted the decline in under-five mortality from 132 to 110 deaths per 1,000 live births from 2018 to 2024, while noting an increase in neonatal mortality from 39 to 41 deaths per 1,000 live births. Professor Pate reaffirmed the government's commitment to the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, focusing on maternal and child health, primary healthcare, and tackling diseases like HIV and malaria.

He called for collaboration among various sectors to promote health and address misinformation.