2024 World Health Day: My Health, My Right
Lagos, Nigeria – April 7, 2024 – On behalf of the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN), I extend warm greetings to everyone on the occasion of World Health Day 2024. This year’s theme, “My Health, My Right,” resonates deeply with the principles of equity, dignity, and justice in healthcare access and delivery.
Health is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Yet, millions of people are not fully covered by essential healthcare services, ranging from inadequate infrastructure to financial constraints and systemic inequalities. In Nigeria, these challenges are all too familiar, with many individuals and communities struggling to access quality healthcare that meets their needs.
As we mark World Health Day, it is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to advancing health equity and ensuring that every individual has the right to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. This requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the social, economic, and environmental determinants of health and promotes universal access to healthcare services without discrimination.
According to WHO, this year’s theme was chosen to champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health services, education, and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions, and freedom from discrimination.
As we strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages (SDG 3), UNAN urges the Nigerian government, civil society organizations, and individuals to take action towards achieving health equity for all Nigerians.
We advocate for:
• Increased investment in primary healthcare infrastructure and services
• Strengthening public health education and awareness campaigns
• Addressing social determinants of health, including poverty, sanitation, and education
• Eliminating discrimination in accessing healthcare services.
Together, let us build a healthier Nigeria where everyone can enjoy their right to health.
Dr. Joan Agha President
United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN) info@unanigeria.org
