Nigeria, with an estimated population of 214 million people, struggles with significant health challenges, especially among its youth. According to WHO and UN reports, Nigeria ranks 186 out of 189 on the Human Development Index, underlining the pressing need for comprehensive health interventions. Approximately 96 million people live on less than $1.90 per day, making Nigeria home to the world's largest population living in extreme poverty. The overall access to essential health services, although showing improvement, remains disproportionately lower in low-income communities. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria's healthcare systems were already grappling with meeting varied health needs, especially in sexual and reproductive health. The pandemic exacerbated these challenges, putting at risk the previously achieved advancements in health equity and gender justice. Young people and women, in particular, face formidable health challenges related to behaviour and development, influencing long-term health and chronic disease risks which impede them from maximizing their potential in life. A medically fit youth has hope, dreams, and aspirations to contribute to his country and become a member of a thriving society, hence the need for young people to have access to health information, care, policies, and assistance.
"Project Health First " is a medical and health advocacy program designed to address the many health challenges young people in Nigeria face when accessing healthcare. It is a response to SDG goal 3 - Good health and well-being which pushes for quality health for all and access to good health, especially for people living in underserved communities and marginalized populations. The core of this program is to create more health awareness among young people, women, and girls on their health rights, and empower them to make informed health decisions, leading to longer, healthier lives.
The "Project Health First" will be implemented in various ways. Because this project is dear to our heart, and youth are the heartbeat of our foundation, we will deploy different methods of outreach which include advocacy, information, medical assistance, and community engagement. Since this program is a targeted program for the youth, we will be providing comprehensive basic healthcare packages and establishing partnerships with over 100 hospitals by 2030 to ensure one million Nigerian youth access affordable and quality healthcare. Through health education efforts, education radio and TV programs, mental health, education in schools, and awareness campaigns on sexual health, nutrition, and substance dangers. The program advocates for gender equality, fights against gender-based violence, and promotes mental health awareness, aiming to create an environment free of stigma. With 'Project Health First,' our vision is to see a society where the well-being of Nigerian youth is prioritized—embracing physical health, mental well-being, social empowerment, and the development of skills that foster long-term personal and societal advancement.