Nasarawa State Advances Public Health Legislation to Strengthen Health Security

By: Julian Adetinuyo

Nasarawa State has commenced a four-day Stakeholders Review Meeting to refine the Public Health Security Bill and Nasarawa State Public Health Bill, aimed at bolstering the state’s health framework and aligning with international health standards to enhance emergency preparedness.

The initiative, driven by the Nasarawa State Ministries of Justice and Health, is supported by Orixine Consulting and Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL). Key participants include government officials, legal experts, public health professionals, and civil society organizations.

Attorney General Labaran Shuaibu Magaji emphasized the urgency of these reforms, stating, “Revising health laws ensures Nasarawa State is prepared to prevent and respond to public health challenges effectively.”

The proposed legislation aligns with the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005 and national benchmarks. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gwamna Shekwonugaza Dogara, highlighted the importance of enforceable and practical laws to improve public health outcomes.

NCDC’s Director, Yenan Sebastian, praised the proactive approach, calling it a benchmark for other states to follow in strengthening resilience against health threats. RTSL and Orixine Consulting echoed these sentiments, offering both financial and technical support to enhance legislative outcomes.

The workshop concludes on November 21, presenting refined bills ready for legislative action.