The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has called on Nigerian students to prioritise healthy living, personal hygiene, proper nutrition and routine immunisation as essential steps towards securing their future and developing leadership potential.
Alausa made the appeal on Wednesday in Abuja during the inaugural Kids’ Dialogue Series, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education organised 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, themed “Empowering Young Voices to Shape Health, Learning and Well-being in Nigeria,” brought together students from schools across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, at Government Science Secondary School, Pyakasa, for discussions on health, education and personal development.
Addressing the students during an interactive session, the minister emphasised that good health remains the cornerstone of effective learning, productivity and responsible leadership.
He encouraged the young participants to take ownership of their well-being by adopting healthy habits and ensuring they receive recommended vaccinations.
Alausa described immunisation as one of the most successful public health interventions, noting that vaccines continue to protect millions of children from preventable diseases.
He urged students to engage their parents and teachers on their vaccination status and ensure they remain adequately protected.
The minister explained that medical advances have produced vaccines capable of preventing serious illnesses, including those linked to certain forms of cancer, while also safeguarding children against diseases such as measles and polio.
He stressed that a healthy child population is critical to achieving national development objectives, adding that investment in children’s health today would yield a more productive and prosperous society in the future.
Alausa also commended parents and teachers for their contributions to nurturing young minds and helping children achieve their aspirations.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina, urged students to serve as advocates for healthy lifestyles within their schools and communities.
He encouraged them to maintain good hygiene, eat nutritious meals and take advantage of available immunisation services.
According to Aina, engaging children in conversations about health and well-being at an early stage is vital to raising a generation of healthy and productive citizens. He added that both education and good health are indispensable for the growth and success of young people.
The dialogue also provided an opportunity for students to ask questions on issues ranging from immunisation to mental health and emotional well-being.
Responding to concerns about trauma and depression raised by participants, Alausa noted that recovery is achievable through professional support and open communication with trusted individuals.
He encouraged students facing emotional challenges to seek help rather than suffer in silence.
On concerns about parental reluctance towards vaccination, the minister advised students to respectfully discuss the benefits of immunisation with their parents and seek guidance from teachers where necessary, reiterating that vaccines remain a critical tool for preventing life-threatening diseases.
