The Nigerian Solidarity Support Fund NSSF has trained one million youths on healthcare advocacy through its initiative, 'Ignite Campaign', aimed at mobilising young Nigerians as health advocates.
This was disclosed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, NSSF, Dr Fejiro Nwoko in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.
She explained that the 2024 campaign was meant to train and mobilise 3000 Nigerian youths as healthcare advocates, to begin the NSSF's ambitious journey to empowering one million youths for healthcare advocacy by 2029.
She explained that the "Ignite Campaign' represents a pivotal step in its strategy to create a healthier Nigeria.
Nwoko stated, "By engaging and training 3,000 young Nigerians, we are addressing the immediate needs for healthcare advocacy and setting the stage for long-term change.
"Our goal is to empower the youth, fortify healthcare systems, and ensure every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare."
"NSSF's experience in protecting the most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated the significant gaps in Nigeria's public healthcare systems.
"We believe Nigerians deserve better and decided to give young Nigerians a platform to participate in creating the Nigerian healthcare system of our dreams through advocacy."
She said following the resounding successes of previous 'Wenaija' campaigns, NSSF decided to morph it into a community for young health advocates to gain peer-to-peer mentorship and bridge the gap between awareness and actions.
According to her, by leveraging the new initiative, Nigerian youths can make real changes in the governance of the nation's health sector.
"We, therefore, implore young Nigerians to join this community through the Ignite Campaign," Nwoko appealed.
She noted that the campaign, which commenced on July 15, would run for six months, featuring digital activations to onboard participants into the 'WeNaija' Community.
"These include workshops, healthcare sector reality checks and weekly challenges.
"These activities aim to combat youth apathy toward healthcare issues and address existing challenges within the healthcare sector.
"By equipping young advocates with essential tools and knowledge, NSSF seeks to bridge the gap between awareness and action," Nwoko added.
She said NSSF's new strategic direction underscores the organisation's commitment to fostering a network of empowered young advocates who can drive meaningful change in their communities.
Nwoko stressed that the 'Ignite Campaign' is not just about training, but igniting a movement of young Nigerians passionate about improving healthcare access and outcomes.
She advised interested Nigerian youths wishing to get involved in the 'Ignite Campaign' to visit the NSSF website at www.nssf.ng or follow NSSF on its social media platforms.
