The Convener of D’Bio Wellness & Self-care, Dr Monica Eimunjeze, has called for collective action to enforce self-care initiatives among citizens, in order to improve health outcomes in Nigeria.
By Lilian U. Okoro
The Convener of D’Bio Wellness & Self-care, Dr Monica Eimunjeze, has called for collective action to enforce self-care initiatives among citizens, in order to improve health outcomes in Nigeria.
Eimunjeze made the call at the second edition of the D’Bio Wellness & Selfcare Summit on Saturday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit, with the theme: “Self-Care as a Driver of Optimal Health and Wellness,” aims to elevate awareness and cultivate a culture of self-care among Nigerians.
It brought together health advocates, stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector, industry professionals, community leaders and representatives from various sectors, including entertainment and education.
According to the convener, the summit’s goals reflect the pressing need to address health outcomes across the country, by emphasising self-care as an accessible and essential element of overall well-being.
She noted that the summit planned to engage diverse groups, particularly youth, through various platforms, such as entertainment and journalism, to drive health messages home.
The D’Bio Wellness & Self-care boss underscored the importance of widespread health literacy, noting that it was crucial for individuals to pick up active roles in their health.
Eimunjeze listed the seven pillars of self-care outlined by the International Self-care Foundation (ISF) to include health literacy, nutrition, physical exercise, rational use of products, as well as mental health.
“For me, this event is something that is very key. Whichever sector or area you are, self-care and health are not the exclusive preserve for those of us who are trained in the healthcare space.
“By the time you start making health a priority, it may be a bit late, hence, the need for early engagement,” she said.
Representing the Chairman of the event, Mr Friday Enaholo, Assistant General Manager (Marketing) at Fidson Pharmaceuticals, underscored the foundational concept of self-love, as essential to achieving wellness.
In his opening remarks, Enaholo stated that one could look healthy and be sick inside, stressing that true wellness encompassed both physical and mental health.
He urged participants to support D’Bio Wellness in its respective fields, enhancing public awareness and empowering individuals to become ambassadors of the self-care movement.
“The word ‘self-care’ starts with self-love. If you love yourself, you will want to achieve wellness and sustain it,” Enaholo said.
Dr Victor Afolabi, the Cheif Executive Officer, Hazon Holdings and Co-Founder of Wellness HMO, emphasised the urgent need for self-care, in the current healthcare landscape of Nigeria.
In his keynote address, Afolabi outlined the dual burden of infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes.
He painted a stark picture of the nation’s healthcare challenges, including an overstretched health system marked by a 1:10,000 doctor-to-patient ratio and soaring healthcare costs.
Reiterating the Six Pillars of Self-Care, Afolabi underscored the importance of structured, evidence-based approaches to health management.
He reinforced the economic and social benefits of prioritising self-care within communities, calling for supportive policies, access to affordable healthcare tools and widespread education to fully integrate self-care in the country.
“Self-care is no longer optional; it is essential to balance rising demand with finite resources.
“Self-care is the first line of defense; hospitals should be the last,” he said.
The summit also welcomed dignitaries, including Dr Fidelis Akhagboso Ayebae, Chairman of Fidson Healthcare Plc, represented by Friday Enaholo; Assistant Director from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Omomowo Omolara, among others.
Invited guests, including stakeholders and industry leaders, shared goodwill messages, emphasising their commitment to enhancing self-care initiatives and fostering healthier communities.
Their support underscored the importance of collaboration across sectors, to drive meaningful change in public health.
Guests were treated to an engaging product presentation and tour exhibition, showcasing innovative health and wellness solutions.(NAN)