By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government on Wednesday in Abuja commended the West African Health Organisation and ECOWAS for strengthening regional health security during the RCSDC Technical Advisory Council meeting, led by Minister of State for Health Dr Iziaq Salako through his representative, Dr Ovuoraye John.
Rising Health Threats in West Africa
Salako highlighted growing health risks across West Africa. He noted emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases continue to threaten the region.
He stressed that countries must act together. According to him, no nation can tackle these challenges alone.
Moreover, he called for stronger surveillance systems. He also urged improved data sharing and cross-border collaboration.
Importance of Regional Cooperation
Salako said the ECOWAS Regional Centre for Surveillance and Disease Control reflects a shared vision. He explained that member states aim to build a resilient health security system.
In addition, he described the council as a platform for technical cooperation. It also supports policy alignment and coordinated responses.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment. He added that the country will support early warning systems and emergency preparedness.
Experts Call for Stronger Early Warning Systems
Dr Constance Onwuka, Acting Director of ECOWAS Early Warning Directorate, stressed the importance of expertise. She said the region faces complex and evolving risks.
Furthermore, she noted that recent outbreaks revealed a key lesson. Health crises affect multiple countries and sectors.
She urged stakeholders to integrate early warning systems with public health surveillance. This, she said, will improve outbreak detection and response.
Need for Data Integration and Collaboration
Onwuka also called for stronger data integration among member states. She emphasised that accurate and timely information remains critical.
Additionally, she encouraged institutions to break silos. She said epidemiological data must feed directly into early warning systems.
She recommended a whole-of-system approach. This should involve health, security, humanitarian, and governance sectors.
Focus on Community-Level Resilience
Onwuka stressed the role of communities. She described them as the first line of defence in disease detection.
Therefore, she urged governments to invest in grassroots resilience. This will improve preparedness and response capacity.
RCSDC Meeting Agenda
Earlier, RCSDC Executive Director Dr Mamadu Diarrassouba outlined the meeting goals. He said the council provides scientific and technical guidance.
The three-day meeting will review key issues. These include the 2025 annual report and regional disease trends.
It will also examine strategic plans, funding opportunities, and antimicrobial resistance efforts. Participants will also discuss reviving the ECOWAS AMR Technical Working Group.
