By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
Residents of Bayelsa State have been encouraged to take full advantage of the various healthcare programmes provided by the state government to improve their wellbeing and promote a healthier society.
The call was made by the Commissioner for Health, Professor Seiyefa Brisibe, shortly after a road walk held in Yenagoa to commemorate this year’s World Health Day.
Speaking with journalists, Professor Brisibe emphasized the importance of public participation in government-driven health initiatives, noting that many of the programmes are designed to provide accessible and affordable healthcare services to residents across the state. He urged citizens to embrace these opportunities in order to prevent diseases and enhance overall quality of life.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s celebration, “Together for Health; Stand with Science,” the Commissioner called on health workers to serve as advocates by promoting science-based healthcare practices. According to him, science remains the backbone of all health interventions, policies, and awareness campaigns, and must be trusted to achieve meaningful health outcomes.
He further encouraged health professionals to intensify efforts in educating the public on the benefits of immunization, routine medical check-ups, and other preventive healthcare services available within the state.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Jones Stowe, stressed the need for a strong and resilient health system anchored on evidence, truth, collaboration, and partnerships. He commended health workers in Bayelsa for their commitment to upholding professional standards and delivering quality services to the people.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Williams Appah, noted that the significance of World Health Day goes beyond a one-day event. He emphasized the need for continuous awareness and sustained action, urging residents to take personal responsibility for their health by adopting healthy lifestyles and utilizing available healthcare services.
Contributing, Assistant Public Health Officer of the World Health Organization, Mr. Anthony Ominibike, alongside the Nembe Primary Health Care Coordinator, Chief Jude Pulemote, commended the Bayelsa State Government for creating an enabling environment for effective healthcare delivery.
They described the 2026 theme as timely and thought-provoking, stressing that achieving optimal healthcare outcomes requires collective effort, unity, and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
The event concluded with a renewed call for stronger collaboration between government, health professionals, and the public to build a healthier Bayelsa.
