President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the summit, themed “The Role of Traditional and Religious Leaders in Advancing the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative,” emphasized that the summit was symbolic of an inclusive and united Nigeria committed to renewal.

President Tinubu said the war against preventable diseases is the responsibility of all, adding that he is determined to give meaning to the summit.

The President stated that traditional and religious leaders remain trusted bridges between government and the people. He noted that their influence is critical to strengthening maternal and newborn health, boosting immunisation coverage, improving epidemic response, and tackling malnutrition.

The president praised the National Health Fellowship Programme, which deploys young professionals across the 774 local government areas, describing the fellows as the youthful force behind Nigeria’s health transformation.

On broader national concerns, Tinubu expressed optimism about ongoing economic reforms and security efforts, assuring Nigerians that the fight against banditry and terrorism would be won with collective support.

Prof. Ali Pate, Minister Of Health And Coordinating Minister, Health And Social Welfare, decried Nigeria’s child health crisis. He lamented that nearly 40 per cent of Nigerian children suffer from stunted growth.

Other stakeholders at the event hailed the Tinubu administration, saying a lot would be achieved if all hands get on the deck.

The summit featured a compact signing ceremony in which traditional and religious leaders pledged to champion healthcare reforms within their domains, reinforcing what officials described as a new national alliance for health.