… Platform to boost health advocacy, accountability
By Chioma Obinna

Health journalists and media advocacy groups in Lagos State have signed an agreement establishing the Lagos State Unified Health Media Coalition, a coordinated platform designed to strengthen public health reporting and unified advocacy across the state.

The agreement, endorsed by authorized representatives of recognized health media networks and associations, underscores the need for stronger collaboration in advancing key public health priorities, including Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH), Primary Health Care (PHC), health financing, reproductive health, and other critical health development issues.

The coalition was formalized at a strategic meeting in Lagos facilitated by partners including EngenderHealth, International Society for Media in Public Health, and the Lagos State Ministry of Health.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr Solomon Dogo of the International Society for Media in Public Health, said the coalition would serve as a unified voice to drive accountability and evidence-based reporting in the health sector.

“The media plays a powerful role in shaping public discourse and strengthening policy accountability. This coalition is about harmonising our voices, improving coordination, and ensuring that health issues receive the strategic attention they deserve,” Dogo said.
According to the agreement, the Unified Coalition will function strictly as a coordination and advocacy platform. It will not interfere with the internal structure, identity, or operations of member networks, as each association retains full autonomy over its governance and activities.
Under the terms of the agreement, leadership of the coalition will be determined through a transparent and mutually agreed process, either by consensus or election. Once selected, member networks have pledged to recognize and support the agreed leadership structure.
The signatories include the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN), the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria (RHJN), the Knowledge Management and Communication Subcommittee of LASAM, and the Society for Media Advocacy on Health Nigeria, among others.
By signing the agreement, members committed to actively participate in coalition activities, support joint advocacy initiatives, promote unity and professionalism, engage constructively in resolving internal differences, and strengthen coordinated engagement with stakeholders.
Witnesses to the signing included representatives of the Lagos State Ministry of Health and development partners.
Participants drawn from various media interest groups said the coalition would foster unity of purpose and strengthen health reporting within the Nigerian media space.
They noted that it would also enhance public office accountability and promote the production of impactful stories capable of shaping sound health policies and advancing universal health coverage.
They agreed that with the formation of the coalition, health journalists in Lagos are poised to present a stronger, coordinated front in advocating for improved health outcomes and sustainable reforms in the sector.