Media professionals in Nasarawa State, under the auspices of the Sustainable Media Advocacy Foundation (SMAF), are actively seeking more partnerships with donor agencies. Their aim is to collaborate on initiatives related to public health, climate change, and other areas that promote community well-being.
The Coordinator of SMAF, Mr. Kalu Idika expressed this during a review meeting hosted by the Challenge Initiative (TCI) and the Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NAPHDA). The purpose of this meeting was to assess past activities of the foundation and plan for the future. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the achievements, challenges faced, and the way forward.
Mr. Idika highlighted that one of the key objectives of the foundation is to enhance media engagement for sustainable development. SMAF aims to achieve this through relevant training programs and the development of impactful community initiatives.
During the review meeting, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, the Director of Health Education and Social Mobilization, emphasized the importance of collective effort in combating Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). He called on all stakeholders in Nasarawa State to unite in this fight. Mr. Ibrahim explained that HPV is a common viral infection transmitted primarily through sexual contact, and most people become infected shortly after becoming sexually active.
He commended NAPHDA for its continuous collaboration with the media to raise awareness and educate the public about health programs. He acknowledged the media’s role in dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding the recent launch of the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine in Nasarawa State. Through their efforts, the media encouraged young girls between the ages of 9 and 14 to get vaccinated.
Mr. Ibrahim assured that NAPHDA would continue working hand in hand with the media to create awareness about health programs, ultimately improving the well-being of residents in the state.
Mr. Oluwafemi Timothy Rotimi, the Research Monitoring and Evaluation Technical Support Lead of The Challenge Initiative (TCI), commended the SMAF for its collaboration since the inception of the program in the state. He acknowledged the group’s efforts in reaching out to various communities and the public through their media platform. This outreach has had a positive impact on the well-being of the people of Nasarawa State.
Mr. Rotimi mentioned that, while their collaboration had been fruitful, there is a need to plan for the future in order to sustain the gains made. The meeting aimed to strategize on how to maintain the achievements recorded through their partnership and document them for future reference.
Additonally, the TCI has also worked with religious organizations to dispel myths and misconceptions about health-related issues. They have also educated the public on how to access health services in the various health centers across the state.
Dr. Mohammed Ali, the Chairman of Interfaith Forum, expressed appreciation to the organization and the media for their efforts in educating the public about healthcare programs in the state. Dr. Ali noted that religious bodies rely on information from the media to sensitise their congregations during sermons in churches and mosques. He urged the media to remain objective in their reporting for the greater good of the state.
The Sustainable Media Advocacy Foundation, through its collaboration with donor agencies and other stakeholders, continues to play a crucial role in promoting community well-being in Nasarawa State. By harnessing the power of the media, these professionals are driving positive change and fostering a healthier future for all.
