Kwara State and UNICEF Mobilize Religious Leaders for Health

The Kwara State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other partners, called on religious and traditional leaders to counter myths surrounding vaccination and promote health practices. This appeal was made by Professor Nusirat Elelu, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA), during a one-day orientation program held at Fresh Hotel, Fate Road, Ilorin, Kwara State.

Professor Elelu highlighted the critical role of religious leaders in addressing maternal, newborn, and infant mortality, improving immunization uptake, and promoting positive health behaviors. She expressed concern over cultural barriers and misinformation that hinder access to essential healthcare services.

Professor Elelu urged leaders to provide accurate health information and support efforts to reduce maternal and infant deaths. Mr. Ibrahim Tsado, Social and Behaviour Change Specialist at UNICEF, encouraged religious leaders to educate their communities on the importance of immunization, emphasizing that vaccines are safe and undergo stringent regulatory processes.