The Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ESPHCDA), Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, has called on media stakeholders in the health sector to ensure accurate and fact-based reporting, particularly in the fight against preventable diseases. She emphasized the critical role of the media in shaping public perception, influencing behavior, and driving action through radio, television, newspapers, and social media.
Dr. Ani-Osheku made the remarks during a one-day zonal media orientation organized for states within the UNICEF Enugu Field Office that are preparing for the upcoming Integrated Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs). The event, supported by UNICEF and implemented by the National Orientation Agency (NOA), was attended by media professionals, State Health Educators (SHEs), and State Immunization Officers (SIOs) from Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Enugu, and Kogi States.
She highlighted the media’s power to dispel fear and rumors during immunization campaigns, urging stakeholders to use scientific facts to encourage life-saving decisions. “Globally, about 2.5 million children die annually from vaccine-preventable diseases, which is not only a tragedy for families but a failure of our collective system to effectively communicate life-saving information,” Dr. Ani-Osheku said.
Stressing the importance of immunization as a cost-effective solution, she noted that media platforms are key to promoting positive behavioral change regarding vaccine uptake. As states prepare for the upcoming Measles Immunization campaign, Dr. Ani-Osheku emphasized the urgency of ensuring that no eligible child, aged nine to 59 months, is left unimmunized. The campaign aims for 95% coverage.
“The media is not just a tool for information dissemination; it is a means by which lives can be saved,” she added, urging media stakeholders to be champions of truth and advocates for children’s health.
Dr. Ani-Osheku also expressed her gratitude to the state governments involved in the Integrated Measles Campaign for their continued support of health programs and for safeguarding the lives of children.
