World Heart Day: Idris Calls For Stronger Action To Prevent Heart Disease –
ABUJA, Nigeria — Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, has urged increased efforts to prevent cardiovascular diseases, promote early detection, and enhance treatment accessibility. His remarks came during an event commemorating World Heart Day on Tuesday, where he spoke on behalf of the minister at a ceremony organized by the Heart Recovery Foundation (HRF).
Idris highlighted the necessity of providing reliable public information to help Nigerians understand the risks associated with heart disease and to encourage timely medical intervention. The event, held under the theme “Use Heart for Action,” attracted medical professionals, heart patients, survivors, development partners, diplomats, and media representatives.
“Behind every statistic on cardiovascular disease is a human being, a family, and a story,” Idris noted, emphasizing the human toll of these conditions. He praised the work of the HRF in health education, cardiovascular screenings, and support for patients in need.
“Citizens require credible, easily accessible information about healthy living and warning signs so they can seek medical attention promptly,” he said, stressing the collaborative role of government, health professionals, civil society, and the media in raising public awareness and improving care access.
Idris outlined the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery, referencing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration aimed at revitalizing Primary Healthcare Centers and expanding specialized medical facilities. However, he acknowledged that addressing these challenges requires collective action.
“Government cannot do this alone,” Idris stated, calling for enduring partnerships among governmental bodies, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and development supporters.
Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the HRF, emphasized the foundation’s broader mission of supporting families impacted by heart disease. “We are not just treating hearts; we are restoring families, careers, and lives,” he said.
Gilbert Kiaka, the foundation’s founder, shared personal experiences that fueled his advocacy for children with congenital heart defects and families facing financial barriers to treatment. “Poverty should never determine whether a child lives or dies from a treatable heart condition,” he asserted.
HRF Programme Coordinator Blessing Moses noted that the foundation, active since 2024, has prioritized awareness, screening, outreach, and treatment support, emphasizing the importance of early screening to identify heart conditions and secure appropriate care for affected children.
In his keynote address, Professor Umar Abubakar, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon and President of the Nigerian Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons, stressed the need for robust systems that link diagnosis to treatment. “It is not enough to diagnose; we must provide access,” he stated, advocating for sustainable financing and enhanced collaboration among various stakeholders in healthcare.
The event included testimonials from beneficiaries of the foundation, highlighting the impact of support for cardiac treatment. Additionally, Special Humanitarian Service Awards were presented to individuals and organizations recognized for their contributions to humanitarian efforts and heart health advocacy.
