Listen to the article
The World Health Organization has issued a call for Nigerians to embrace science-based health practices and become more discerning consumers of health information, emphasizing that adherence to scientific evidence is crucial for improving national health outcomes and saving lives.
This appeal was made during a health walk organized to commemorate World Health Day 2026, themed “Together for Health, Stand with Science,” held in partnership with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
“Health information today can be confusing due to multiple sources, but not all are evidence-based. Nigerians must ensure that the advice they follow comes from trusted and scientific sources,” the WHO Country Representative stated during the event on Monday.
The official highlighted that the global health organization, founded on April 7, 1946, marks World Health Day annually to spotlight critical health priorities. The 2026 theme particularly emphasizes science’s foundational role in advancing healthcare systems and outcomes worldwide.
“We celebrate achievements grounded in science. If we stay with science and work together for health, we will achieve better health outcomes and save more lives,” the WHO representative added.
The commemoration comes at a time when misinformation about health issues continues to proliferate across Nigeria through various channels, including social media. Health authorities have increasingly expressed concern about the spread of unverified remedies and treatments that can potentially harm public health.
During the event, the WHO representative emphasized the importance of regular physical activity, noting that scientific evidence strongly supports engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily for improved physical and mental wellbeing. This recommendation aligned with the day’s health walk, which served as both a symbolic and practical demonstration of the advice.
“There is strong scientific evidence that being active for at least 30 minutes daily contributes to stronger physical and mental health. That is why we began the day with a health walk,” the representative explained.
The health walk was part of a broader series of activities, including a press conference, designed to increase public awareness and engagement around the theme.
Dr. Iziaq Salako, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, reinforced the WHO’s message, urging citizens to trust science and adhere strictly to professional health advice.
“We call on Nigerians to trust science and follow scientific advice because it is life-saving. What we have achieved globally and in Nigeria is largely due to evidence-based interventions,” Dr. Salako emphasized.
The minister further stressed that health remains central to national development and societal progress, highlighting the critical link between a healthy population and economic advancement. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, continues to face numerous health challenges, including infectious diseases, maternal mortality, and growing rates of non-communicable diseases.
“Health is central to development, central to society, and central to both present and future generations. By following scientific guidance, we can advance health outcomes and save many lives,” Dr. Salako added.
The commemorative event brought together key stakeholders including ministry officials, WHO staff, health fellows, and other partners who participated in the walk. Their collective participation symbolically reinforced the importance of physical activity and collaborative action in promoting public health across the nation.
World Health Day, celebrated annually on April 7, serves as a global platform to draw attention to priority areas of health concern and mobilize coordinated action toward improved wellbeing for populations worldwide. The 2026 theme particularly resonates in an era where health misinformation presents growing challenges to public health systems globally.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
11 Comments
Combating health misinformation is a global challenge. The WHO’s efforts to urge Nigerians to rely on scientific sources are commendable and much-needed.
The WHO’s emphasis on the importance of science in healthcare is well-placed. Adhering to evidence-based practices is essential for improving public health and saving lives.
It’s concerning to see the proliferation of health misinformation. Glad the WHO is taking a strong stance and urging Nigerians to be discerning consumers of information.
Agreed. With so many sources out there, it’s critical that people differentiate fact from fiction and follow advice from reputable, science-based authorities.
Kudos to the WHO for organizing this health walk to promote science-based health information. Nigerians should heed the call to stand with science for better outcomes.
Absolutely. By embracing evidence-based advice, Nigerians can make more informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.
The WHO’s call for Nigerians to embrace science-based health practices is timely and necessary. Misinformation can have serious consequences, so this initiative is truly valuable.
Promoting science-based health practices is crucial, especially in the face of misinformation. Embracing evidence-based advice from trusted sources can truly improve community wellbeing.
Absolutely. Science is the foundation for advancing healthcare and achieving better outcomes. Nigerians should heed the WHO’s call to rely on scientific evidence.
It’s encouraging to see the WHO taking a proactive stance against the spread of misleading health information. Nigerians should absolutely prioritize science-based practices.
Agreed. Adherence to scientific evidence is crucial for improving healthcare outcomes. The WHO’s message is an important one for all Nigerians to heed.