FHANI Calls for Full Implementation of Health Budgets as World Health Day 2026 is Marked

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna The Family Health Advocates in Nigeria Initiative (FHANI) has joined the global community in commemorating Wo...

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Family Health Advocates in Nigeria Initiative (FHANI) has joined the global community in commemorating World Health Day 2026, themed “Together for Health: Stand with Science.” The theme highlights the critical role of science, evidence-based policies, and collective action in strengthening health systems and improving the well-being of citizens.

This was contained in a statement signed by Benjamin Yunana Maigari on behalf of the Family Health Advocates in Nigeria Initiative (FHANI).

FHANI commended the Kaduna State Government for its consistent commitment to the health sector, particularly the allocation of over 15% of its annual budget to health in line with the Abuja Declaration target.

According to the group, this demonstrates strong political will and recognition of health as a priority for sustainable development.

However, the organization stressed that budgetary allocation alone is not sufficient. It called on the Kaduna State Government to ensure full and timely cash backing of health budgets, noting that without adequate release and utilization of allocated funds, the impact on health service delivery remains limited.

FHANI further appealed to the government to improve the availability of essential medicines and commodities, strengthen health infrastructure and equipment, and ensure the adequate recruitment, training, and motivation of health workers.

It also called for enhanced primary healthcare services, especially in underserved communities, as well as accelerated efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality.

Marking the occasion, FHANI urged government and relevant stakeholders to “stand with science” by investing in evidence-based health interventions and ensuring that financial commitments translate into real, measurable outcomes for citizens.

The organization also called on civil society groups, development partners, and communities to continue advocating for transparent, accountable, and efficient use of health resources.

“Together, through sustained investment, accountability, and science-driven policies, we can build a resilient health system that guarantees quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare for all,” the statement added.