Tinubu Calls on Traditional and Religious Leaders to Combat Preventable Diseases

President Bola Tinubu has called on traditional and religious leaders to take proactive roles in addressing preventable diseases, asserting that enhancing the health of Nigerians is a shared responsibility.

This appeal was made on Tuesday during the National Summit of Traditional and Religious Leaders on Health and Well-being, which took place at the State House in Abuja.

Tinubu underscored, "The battle against preventable diseases is everyone’s duty, and I am here as a leader to kindly remind you that this responsibility also belongs to traditional rulers."

He characterized the meeting as a gathering that transcends generations and faiths, filled with wisdom, courage, and commitment to the health of Nigerians.

The president expressed gratitude to the leaders for their continuous efforts to uplift the quality of life for Nigerians in their areas of influence.

“It is a privilege to have listened to your pledges to enhance the health standards in your communities,” Tinubu remarked. He emphasized that health sector reforms will not succeed without the active participation of leaders who serve as trusted voices connecting the government and the communities.

“No health initiative in Nigeria can thrive without your influence. Your respected positions help to bridge the divide between the government and the populace,” he stated.

The president recalled the expansion of the Universal Health Coverage Compact, highlighting the inclusion of traditional and religious leaders, civil society, and private sectors.

He pointed out that issues like maternal and newborn health, immunization, outbreak response, nutrition, and food security are critical areas demanding support from the grassroots level.

“Communities often heed your advice before they listen to the government,” he noted.

Tinubu urged traditional leaders to oversee the operations of primary healthcare facilities in their communities and report any deficiencies swiftly.

“Inspect the wards in your locality, encourage people to review the healthcare facilities, and if they are lacking, communicate with local and federal authorities. We will take action,” the president assured.

He highlighted the National Health Fellowship Programme, initiated in 2025 to deploy promising young Nigerians across all 774 local government areas, with the goal of improving service delivery and reducing maternal and child mortality rates.

The president reiterated his administration’s dedication to transparent governance and inclusive development and called for ongoing collaboration to foster a healthier, more united, and prosperous Nigeria.