By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, in collaboration with the Nigeria Health Watch and the Association of Practitioners of Community Media (APCOM), has launched a joint effort to tackle health misinformation within communities. This partnership was announced during an inaugural interactive session held in Lagos on Monday, August 26, 2024, led by APCOM’s National President, Mr. Abayomi Adejumo.
Mr. Adejumo emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the rising challenge of health misinformation. “Community media, under APCOM, is ready to work closely with the Nigeria Health Watch and Lagos Primary Health Care Board to combat fake news and disinformation, especially on health matters that affect daily lives,” he said.
The initiative aims to ensure effective dissemination of accurate health information and create positive awareness at the grassroots level.
Nigeria Health Watch Programme Manager, Mr. Abara Erim, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the significance of trust in health communication. He noted that community media practitioners are trusted voices within their communities, which is key to correcting misinformation.
Reflecting on past health crises, such as the 2014 Ebola misinformation that saw communities falsely relying on salt as a cure, Erim stressed the importance of this partnership in preventing similar incidents.
Mrs. Temidayo Adewuyi, Health Education Officer at the Lagos State Primary Health Centres Board, highlighted the upcoming campaigns for measles, yellow fever, and HPV vaccinations.
She stated that through the collaboration with community media, the board aims to increase awareness, debunk rumors, and encourage the use of local primary healthcare services.