Abuja: Mr John Uruakpa, Director of the Health Promotion Division at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the importance of self-care in maintaining health, particularly for vulnerable groups, during a hybrid meeting of the National Self-Care Advocacy Network (N-SAN) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Uruakpa emphasized that N-SAN is dedicated to promoting self-care and empowering individuals to manage their health, guided by specific advocacy objectives. The network seeks to clarify its purpose and significance, ensuring that stakeholders comprehend its role in advancing self-care practices.
He noted that identifying priority advocacy actions is essential for making progress in self-care initiatives at both national and sub-national levels. N-SAN is an integral part of the National Self-Care Guideline, aiding in the implementation of demand-generation strategies. Uruakpa stressed the importance of harmonizing advocacy messages to ensure a unified approach to self-care promotion across various platforms.
He added that sharing lessons learned among members helps them benefit from each other’s experiences and successes. Collaboration remains key to the network’s success, with members engaging in joint efforts nationwide. Uruakpa expressed optimism that collective action would bolster N-SAN and enhance the health and well-being of Nigeria.
Mrs Onyinye Jonathan, also from the Health Promotion Division, stated that the meeting aimed to strengthen the network’s framework. The session was designed to clarify N-SAN’s purpose, functions, and the roles of different member categories. Participants would be oriented on self-care in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Maternal Health (SRMH) and updated on its expanded integration into Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent, and Elderly Health (RMNCAEH).
She explained that the event would outline how the network’s objectives align with broader national health goals. Stakeholders are keen to learn about the progress in integrating self-care interventions into RMNCAEH. The updates are expected to help participants effectively support and promote self-care initiatives.
Jonathan mentioned that identifying priority advocacy actions would ensure a cohesive approach at national and sub-national levels. The meeting aimed to energize participants and equip them to further self-care initiatives. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the meeting was organized by the ministry’s Health Promotion Division, with support from the White Ribbon Alliance.