Nigerian Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, has urged for stronger measures to prevent cardiovascular disease, promote early detection, and increase access to treatment. He emphasized the importance of credible public information in saving lives. This call to action was made on behalf of Idris by Dr. Mohammed Bulama, Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), at the 2026 World Heart Day commemoration and Special Humanitarian Service Award Ceremony organized by the Heart Recovery Foundation (HRF) in Abuja.
The event, themed "Use Heart for Action," brought together medical professionals, heart patients and survivors, development partners, members of the diplomatic community, media practitioners, and other stakeholders. The minister's message highlighted the human reality behind cardiovascular disease, noting that behind every statistic is a human being, a family, and a story. This gathering aimed to raise awareness and promote collaborative efforts to address heart disease.
Idris commended the Heart Recovery Foundation for translating concern into practical action through health education, cardiovascular screening, medical consultations, survivor testimonies, and support for indigent heart patients. He emphasized the role of information in prevention, stating that citizens need credible, accessible, and understandable information about healthy living, warning signs, risk factors, and when to seek medical attention.
The minister stressed that government, health professionals, civil society, and the media must continue to work together to strengthen awareness and access to care. He also highlighted the Federal Government's efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, including the revitalization of Primary Healthcare Centres and the expansion of specialized medical facilities, reflecting the broader health-sector reforms of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
Idris acknowledged that while the government is making efforts, it cannot do this alone. He urged continued collaboration among government, medical professionals, civil society, development partners, and the media. The minister accepted the humanitarian service recognition conferred on him, which he saw as an encouragement to continue supporting initiatives that protect human life and promote the wellbeing of Nigerians.
Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Heart Recovery Foundation, noted that the Foundation's work goes beyond medical intervention to restoring the lives and livelihoods of families affected by heart disease. He emphasized that the Foundation is not just treating hearts but also restoring families, careers, and children.
Gilbert Kiaka, Founder of the Heart Recovery Foundation, shared his personal experience with heart disease, which motivated him to become a voice for children with congenital heart defects and families unable to afford treatment. He emphasized that poverty should never determine whether a child lives or dies from a treatable heart condition.
Key points
- The Nigerian government is strengthening healthcare delivery through various health interventions.
- The Heart Recovery Foundation provides health education, cardiovascular screening, and support for indigent heart patients.
- Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial to addressing heart disease in Nigeria.
