Ekiti, WHO reaffirm commitment to healthcare at World Health Day event

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing quality, accessible and inclusive healthcare for residents.

Filani gave the assurance during an event in Ado-Ekiti to commemorate  the 2026 World Health Day.

Dr Filani said this year's celebration with the theme" Together for Health: Stand with Science" served as a reminder that good health remains the foundation of a productive society.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, he said the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji had continued to prioritise people-centred health policies, improved infrastructure and stronger primary healthcare systems.

He urged residents to take responsibility for their wellbeing by adopting healthy lifestyles, going for regular medical check-ups and avoiding the misuse of drugs.

“Health is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. Together, we must build a healthier Ekiti where no one is left behind,” he said.

The Ekiti State Government joined the rest of the world in commemorating the annual event, which highlights the importance of science-driven approaches to improving public health.

In his remarks, the World Health Organization (WHO) State Coordinator, Pharmacist Akeem Busari, said the theme was timely, noting that science continues to play a vital role in tackling health challenges in Africa and beyond.

He pointed to the rapid development and deployment of Ebola vaccines in West and Central Africa as evidence of the impact of research driven by local partnerships.

Mr Busari called on African governments to increase investment in science, research and innovation as a pathway to stronger health security and sustainable development.

He also urged global partners to support African-led scientific initiatives and expand access to technology and knowledge.

WHO advised the Government to invest more in Science and medical schools to produce a more competent medical team to collaborate more for health while standing with science.

Other stakeholders, including Dr Olasunkanmi Alabi of the Hospitals’ Management Board, Dr Sunday Omoya of the Ministry of Environment, and the heads of the Ekiti State Health Insurance Scheme and State Emergency Management Agency, commended the government’s efforts to prevent disease outbreaks and improve health outcomes.

They encouraged residents to embrace positive health-seeking behaviours.

The event featured a health walk, public awareness campaigns and a symposium focused on strengthening science-driven healthcare systems in the state.