Lagos: The Convener of D’Bio Wellness and Self-care, Dr. Monica Eimunjeze, has called for collective action to enforce self-care initiatives among citizens, in order to improve health outcomes in Nigeria. Eimunjeze made the call at the second edition of the D’Bio Wellness and Self-care Summit held in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the summit, themed ‘Self-Care as a Driver of Optimal Health and Wellness,’ aims to elevate awareness and cultivate a culture of self-care among Nigerians. It brought together health advocates, stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector, industry professionals, community leaders, and representatives from various sectors, including entertainment and education.
The convener emphasized the summit’s goals to address health outcomes across the country by highlighting self-care as an accessible and essential element of overall well-being. She noted plans to engage diverse groups, particularly youth, through various platforms such as entertainment and journalism, to convey health messages effectively.
Dr. Eimunjeze highlighted the importance of widespread health literacy, stating that individuals must take active roles in their health. She listed the seven pillars of self-care outlined by the International Self-care Foundation (ISF), including health literacy, nutrition, physical exercise, rational use of products, and mental health.
Representing the Chairman of the event, Mr. Friday Enaholo, Assistant General Manager (Marketing) at Fidson Pharmaceuticals, emphasized the foundational concept of self-love as essential to achieving wellness. In his opening remarks, Enaholo noted that true wellness encompasses both physical and mental health.
Dr. Victor Afolabi, CEO of Hazon Holdings and Co-Founder of Wellness HMO, highlighted the urgent need for self-care in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. In his keynote address, Afolabi discussed the dual burden of infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes, as well as the challenges faced by the nation’s overstretched healthcare system.
Afolabi reiterated the importance of structured, evidence-based approaches to health management and the economic and social benefits of prioritizing self-care within communities. He called for supportive policies, access to affordable healthcare tools, and widespread education to fully integrate self-care in the country.
The summit also welcomed dignitaries, including Dr. Fidelis Akhagboso Ayebae, Chairman of Fidson Healthcare Plc, represented by Friday Enaholo, and Omomowo Omolara, Assistant Director from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, among others. Invited guests and stakeholders shared goodwill messages, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing self-care initiatives and fostering healthier communities.