In a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s health system, researchers have urged members of the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN) to uphold integrity and accuracy in health reportage to better educate the public and guide policy formulation.
This call was made at the opening of a two-day workshop organised by HEWAN in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and supported by Roche, held in Lagos.
Speaking at the event themed “Elevating Science and Health Journalism,” the Director-General of NIMR and Chairman of the programme, Prof. John Obafunwa, represented by Prof. Oliver Ezechi, emphasised that integrity, clarity, and accountability in health reporting have a direct impact on public outcomes.
He noted that access to trustworthy health and scientific insights empowers citizens to make informed decisions and strengthens national health systems.
Prof. Obafunwa commended HEWAN for its commitment to advancing quality health journalism, urging participants to maximise the training opportunity to enhance their professional skills.
He stressed that journalists play a vital role in reducing uncertainty, simplifying complex medical data, and reinforcing public trust through accurate reporting.
Delivering the keynote address on “Why Health and Science Journalism Matters More Than Ever in Nigeria,” Prof. Ezechi described health reporters as key public health educators who uncover service delivery gaps, promote accountability, and disseminate life-saving information.
He cautioned against unverified reports that could cause panic or spread misinformation, particularly around vaccines and disease outbreaks.
According to him, health and science journalism is now more critical than ever as Nigeria confronts infectious disease threats, growing non-communicable diseases, weak health financing, and widespread misinformation.
He added that journalists serve as a bridge between science and society, translating data into actionable information during health crises.
HEWAN President, Mrs. Vivian Ihechu, said the workshop aimed to equip health writers with advanced tools to cover health policies, disease outbreaks, and treatment innovations with greater depth and accuracy.
She explained that the event also commemorates the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aligning with global efforts to promote early detection and equitable access to care.
Mrs. Ihechu, who heads the Lagos Health Desk of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), noted that journalism is not just about reporting facts but saving lives.
She urged health writers to go beyond statistics, tell human stories, and dispel myths surrounding diseases like breast cancer, while commending NIMR and Roche for supporting an initiative that underscores the vital role of informed media in improving Nigeria’s health outcomes.
Reporting by Sherifat Oyediran