🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian health experts advocate for stronger disease surveillance to combat outbreaks
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Public health experts, including epidemiologists, researchers, policymakers, and development partners from Nigeria, have called for enhanced disease surveillance to address public health threats. This appeal was made during the 12th Annual National Conference of the Epidemiological Society of Nigeria in Calabar, Cross River State. Dr. Matthew Ashikeni, National President of the Epidemiological Society of Nigeria, emphasized the need for robust surveillance systems to enable early detection and rapid response to outbreaks. He stated that effective epidemiological resilience requires strong surveillance, improved sanitation and hygiene, continuous capacity building for health professionals, and evidence-based health policies. Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Commissioner for Health Dr. Henry Ayuk, highlighted Cross River State's commitment to healthcare through investments in primary healthcare, disease surveillance, and health insurance. Dr. Vivian Otu, Director General of Cross River State Primary Healthcare, underscored the importance of resilient health systems. Dr. Rebecca Olatunde of the World Health Organization urged health experts to continue advocating for disease surveillance to tackle public health challenges.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Lagos State Government has launched a N2.5 million tree-planting prize as part of its 2026 World Environment Day activities, aiming to encourage environmental sustainability and address urban heat. This initiative was announced by Olalekan Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, during the World Environment Day celebration in Ikeja. The state's efforts come as the United Nations recognized Lagos among 50 cities globally susceptible to extreme temperatures up to 50°C. The event, themed “Inspired by Nature for Climate, For Our Future,” highlighted nature-based solutions for climate change. Lagos plans to plant 500 trees and introduce the “Me and My Tree” initiative, providing free seedlings to participants who will nurture them for a year, with the best-performing tree receiving the N2.5 million reward. Lagos will also join the United Nations Environment Programme’s 50 Cities at 50°C initiative, adopting the theme “50 Cities at 50°C: Lagos Rising Against the Urban Heat Island.” Rotimi-Akodu noted that climate change, rapid urbanization, and population growth are increasing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing vegetation, and raising temperatures. The World Meteorological Organisation confirmed 2024 as the warmest year on record. Lagos, as Africa’s most populous city, is vulnerable to climate threats like sea level rise, extreme heat, and flooding, which impact public health, productivity, and air quality. Measures include investments in an integrated tra
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