Alausa urges students to embrace immunisation, healthy living to safeguard future
By Uji A. Iliyasu Abuja
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has called on Nigerian students to adopt healthy lifestyles, maintain proper hygiene, eat nutritious foods and ensure they receive recommended vaccinations to safeguard their future and develop into responsible leaders.
Alausa made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during the maiden edition of the Kids’ Dialogue Series organised by the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and the Centre for Well-being and Integrated Nutritious Solutions (C-WINS).
The event, held at Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa, Abuja, was themed: “Empowering Young Voices to Shape Health, Learning and Well-being in Nigeria.”
Speaking during an interactive session with students from various schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the minister emphasised that good health is the foundation for effective learning, productivity and leadership.
“If you don’t have health, you don’t have a life. You are the future of this nation and we have to start right by keeping you healthy. The most important person in keeping you healthy is you,” he said.
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Alausa described vaccination as one of the most effective tools for preventing life-threatening diseases, urging students to confirm from their parents and teachers that they are up to date with their immunisation schedules.
He said medical advancements have made vaccines such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine effective in preventing certain cancers, while vaccines against measles and polio continue to protect millions of children worldwide.
The minister stressed that raising healthy children is critical to achieving national development goals and building a productive future generation. He also commended parents and teachers for their roles in guiding and nurturing children.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina, encouraged students to become advocates for healthy living within their schools and communities.
“As you learn, it is important that you also practise healthy behaviours, get your vaccinations, maintain good hygiene and eat nutritious food,” he said.
Aina noted that engaging children in discussions on health and well-being at an early age would help set them on a path to becoming healthy and productive adults.
The dialogue featured an interactive question-and-answer session during which students sought clarification on issues relating to immunisation, mental health and general well-being.
Responding to concerns raised by students, Alausa said people experiencing trauma and depression could recover through counselling, professional support and open communication with trusted individuals.
He also advised children whose parents are hesitant about vaccination to explain its benefits and seek guidance from teachers where necessary, reiterating that immunisation remains a vital safeguard against preventable and life-threatening diseases.
The event highlighted government’s commitment to promoting the health and well-being of schoolchildren as a key component of national development.