Minister Alausa Urges Nigerian Students to Embrace Healthy Living and Vaccination
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has called on Nigerian students to adopt healthy lifestyles by practicing good hygiene, eating balanced diets, and staying current with recommended vaccinations. He stressed that these habits are essential for safeguarding their future and cultivating responsible leadership qualities.
Speaking at the inaugural Kids’ Dialogue Series held at Government Science Secondary School in Pyakasa, Abuja, Dr Alausa emphasized that sound health is fundamental to effective learning, improved productivity, and national progress. The event was jointly organized by the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and the Centre for Well-being and Integrated Nutritious Solutions (C-WINS), under the theme “Empowering Young Voices to Shape Health, Learning and Well-being in Nigeria.”
The minister urged children to take an active role in protecting their health and well-being, stating that without good health, there is no life. He reminded them that they are the nation's future and must start right by staying healthy. Alausa described vaccination as one of the most effective tools for preventing life-threatening diseases, encouraging students to confirm with their parents and teachers that they are up to date with immunizations. He noted that vaccines against measles and polio have saved millions of lives, while the HPV vaccine has proven effective in preventing certain cancers.
Dr Muyi Aina, Executive Director of NPHCDA, also addressed the students, urging them to become advocates for healthy living by promoting positive health behaviors in their schools, homes, and communities. He encouraged them to lead by example through good personal hygiene, healthy eating, regular physical activity, and completing all recommended vaccinations. Aina highlighted that young people have a unique ability to influence their peers and play a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyles among children and adolescents.
He stressed that investing in children's health and well-being is critical to building a productive and prosperous nation. Healthy students are better equipped to learn, achieve academic goals, and contribute meaningfully to society. Creating awareness about preventive healthcare from an early age will help reduce the burden of avoidable diseases and foster a generation of informed and responsible citizens.
