The International Society of Media in Public Health (ISMPH), in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and key health stakeholders, has reinforced the role of journalists as agents of change in advancing maternal, newborn, and child healthcare outcomes. Through a targeted capacity-building initiative, media professionals were equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively report on critical health issues and contribute to improved public awareness and accountability.
The engagement highlighted the importance of accurate, evidence-based journalism in addressing health challenges and promoting informed decision-making among communities. Participants were encouraged to leverage the power of storytelling to amplify health messages, increase public understanding of maternal and child health concerns, and support positive health-seeking behaviors.
Discussions during the programme focused on key maternal and child health priorities, including antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, immunization, nutrition, and access to quality healthcare services. Stakeholders emphasized that informed and consistent media coverage can play a vital role in bridging information gaps, dispelling myths, and encouraging greater community participation in health interventions.
The initiative also underscored the need for stronger collaboration between the health sector and the media. By fostering partnerships with journalists, health institutions can ensure that critical public health information reaches wider audiences in a timely, accurate, and impactful manner.
For ISMPH, strengthening the capacity of media practitioners remains central to improving health outcomes across communities. Journalists are uniquely positioned to shape public discourse, spotlight challenges within the healthcare system, and advocate for policies and interventions that support vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.
As efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare continue, ISMPH remains committed to empowering media professionals with the skills and resources necessary to drive meaningful change. Through strategic communication, advocacy, and partnership, the Society continues to promote a healthier and more informed society where every individual has access to life-saving health information and services.
The engagement serves as another step toward building a stronger network of health journalists who can contribute to advancing public health priorities and supporting sustainable healthcare development in Nigeria.
