May 07, (THEWILL) – The Network for Health Equity and Development (NHED) says Kano State has made significant strides in its efforts to achieve health security for the people of the state.
According to NHED, such strides include the passage of the Public Health Security Bill and the government’s formal adoption of the Health Security Financing Accountability Framework (HSFAF).
A statement by NHED’s Communication Lead, Tessy Nongo Maina, said the Network made the submission during a media briefing in partnership with civil society stakeholders held in Kano on Wednesday, to spotlight the importance of accountability in health security financing in Kano State.
It described the strides as critical first steps toward building a system that ensures readiness in the face of health emergencies
“However, progress cannot stop at policy adoption. Implementation requires resources, monitoring and public engagement. This is where the media has a vital role to play.
“NHED is calling on journalists to go beyond one-time event reporting to ask tough questions, track funding flows, and bring attention to both gaps and achievements in epidemic preparedness.
“Health security is not just a government responsibility, it is a public good. Journalists must help keep this issue on the agenda by telling data-driven, human-centred stories that make health security financing relevant to everyday citizens.
“The HSFAF provides a structure to follow the money, track spending, and support transparency. But without data and public oversight, it risks remaining on paper”, the statement said.
NHED called for continued collaboration with the media to ensure that “these tools are fully operational and impactful”.
The statement also quoted NHED’s Senior Technical Advisor, Dr Mafeni, as saying: “We cannot afford to be reactive in the face of health threats. The systems we build now, including systems of accountability, will determine how we respond.
“The media is not a bystander in this process. You are essential partners in building public trust and strengthening preparedness.
“We invite all members of the press to take up this challenge and keep health security in focus, not just today, but consistently, as we work to protect lives and build resilient systems in Kano State”, the statement added.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
