Health experts have marked World Health Day by calling for better maternal care and the inclusion of traditional medicine in Nigeria and across Africa.
This year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” was celebrated locally under the slogan “My Health, My Right.” The event was organized by the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) in partnership with UandNature Therapy Clinic in Abuja.
Poor Awareness and Harmful Beliefs to Blame
According to Prof. Chidi Ehiriodo, IAWPA’s international director, Africa’s high maternal mortality rate is linked to poor health education and harmful cultural beliefs.
“When you’re sick, you’re angry. And when you’re angry, you can’t promote peace,” he said, stressing the need for emotional wellness in healthcare.
Healing the Body and the Mind
Blessing Oladapo-Amao, CEO of UandNature Therapy Clinic, said healing must be holistic.
“You can’t treat the body without treating the mind,” she explained. She also linked many health problems to unforgiveness and trauma.
Oladapo-Amao urged Nigerians to embrace traditional healing methods.
“Strangely, the same remedies we abandoned here are now being welcomed in other parts of the world,” she said.
Traditional Medicine: The Future of Healthcare?
Prof. Usman Chiroma, Secretary of the Association of Integrative Medicine, called traditional and alternative medicine “the medicine of the future.” He urged lawmakers to support bills that regulate and promote these practices.
In the same vein, Dr. Joshua Onodugo, CEO of the Alternative Medical Academy, praised countries like China and India for protecting their traditional practices. He said African nations should do the same.
The event ended with the induction of new Peace Ambassadors and a call for inclusive health policies that support both modern and traditional healthcare systems.
World Health Day is observed every April 7 to raise awareness of global health challenges and the need for better healthcare access.
