EPIDEMIOLOGISTS CALL FOR ROBUST HEALTH SURVEILLANCE AT NATIONAL CONFERENCE
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
Public health experts, epidemiologists, researchers, policymakers, and development partners have called for stronger disease surveillance systems to improve Nigeria’s ability to detect and respond to emerging and recurring health threats.
The call was made at the 12th Annual National Conference of the Epidemiological Society of Nigeria (ESN), held in Calabar, Cross River State, under the theme, “Strengthening Epidemiological Resilience in Nigeria: Addressing Emerging and Re-emerging Health Challenges.”
Speaking at the event, ESN President, Dr Matthew Ashikeni, stressed the need for robust surveillance systems capable of ensuring early detection and rapid response to disease outbreaks. He noted that strengthening epidemiological resilience is critical as Nigeria and other countries continue to face recurring public health challenges.
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Ashikeni said effective disease control requires consistent surveillance, improved sanitation and hygiene, continuous training for health professionals, and evidence-based health policies. He also highlighted the role of research institutions in providing data and scientific evidence to support public health interventions and policymaking.
He commended the Cross River State Government for supporting the successful hosting of the conference.
Representing Governor Bassey Otu, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to healthcare development through investments in primary healthcare, disease surveillance, immunisation programmes, health insurance, and medical infrastructure.
Ayuk said Cross River remains one of the few states effectively delivering vaccines and essential medicines to hard-to-reach communities, ensuring vulnerable populations have access to healthcare services. He also cited the achievements of the state’s health insurance scheme as a major step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage.
The Director-General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Vivian Otu, emphasised the need for resilient health systems capable of responding swiftly to outbreaks and public health emergencies. She called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders and development partners to build a more responsive healthcare system.
Also speaking at the conference, World Health Organization representative Dr Rebecca Olatunde urged health professionals to sustain advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening disease surveillance and tackling emerging public health threats across the country.
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