By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative and Head of Mission to Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, has emphasized that “Health is Human Right”, as he underscored the critical importance of treating health deprivation as a human rights violation.
Mulombo highlight this at the World Health Day, WHD, Commemorative “Walk the Talk” and Health Colloquium held in Abuja to promote physical activity, well-being and lifestyle.
The WHO Country Representing to Nigeria further highlighted the significance of addressing health-related issues from a human rights perspective, stating , “Any health deprivation should be treated as a Human rights violation.”
According to him, “neglecting vaccinations for children or maternal mortality during childbirth cannot be tolerated and must be regarded as human rights violations.”
Mulombo reiterated the fundamental principle behind the creation of WHO 76 years ago.
He stressed that health is a fundamental human right and should not be considered a privilege. “Health is a means of achieving human rights”, Mulombo stated, emphasizing the need for a global consensus among member nations on the importance of prioritizing health.
The theme of this year’s World Health Day, “My Health, My Right,” resonates with the WHO’s mission to ensure universal health coverage.
In the same way, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Kachallom Daju re-echoed Mulombo’s sentiments, emphasizing that health is a fundamental human right regardless of religion or gender.
Daju disclosed the collaborative efforts between Nigeria and the WHO in achieving significant milestones in healthcare delivery.
She emphasized the importance of reengineering the health sector to ensure universal health coverage, extending from primary healthcare to tertiary levels.
“We cannot have universal health coverage without cohesive collaboration among all tiers of government”, stressing the role of both federal and subnational entities in ensuring accessible healthcare for all Nigerians.
Daju concluded, urging participants to prioritize their well-being through regular health check-ups and awareness initiatives like the commemorative walk.
The WHO “Your health is your Right” to commemorate the WHD was aimed at raising the awareness about the importance of individual health responsibility.
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