The head of the Department of Public Health at Babcock University, Prof. Oyewole Oyerinde, has expressed deep concerns over the deteriorating state of Nigeria's public health system, emphasizing that millions of citizens are deprived of essential services such as clean water and adequate healthcare facilities. His remarks came during a keynote address at the first induction ceremony of 17 Public Health graduates from Chrisland University, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Prof. Oyerinde highlighted that the challenges facing Nigeria's healthcare extend beyond mere hospital access and medication, pointing out that environmental health and primary healthcare systems are crucial to enhancing the overall well-being of the population. He noted that many communities encounter significant obstacles in accessing quality healthcare, including inequality, insufficient staffing, and financial constraints.

"We do not have clean water; there is no adequate housing; the problem is ongoing... Behind every health system indicator is someone’s experience," Prof. Oyerinde stated, underlining the human impact of health statistics. He stressed the importance of public health professionals in identifying the root causes of health issues, such as the lack of safe drinking water and proper sanitation, rather than solely treating symptoms.

The professor pointed out that Nigeria still falls short of global healthcare accessibility standards, with health facilities ideally needing to be located within three to five kilometers of residents. He described primary healthcare as foundational for a healthcare system that is accessible, equitable, and continuous. Prof. Oyerinde urged stakeholders to tackle the challenges that hinder the effectiveness of primary healthcare in Nigeria.

In his address, he also encouraged the newly inducted graduates to play a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria's health system through research, epidemiology, and community engagement. He emphasized that their research should lead to practical solutions rather than remaining theoretical, while also calling for integrity in their professional practices.

The Vice-Chancellor of Chrisland University, Prof. Oyedunni Sola Arulogun, congratulated the graduates and reminded them of their unique position as the first cohort to be inducted into the African Institute of Public Health Professionals. She emphasized their responsibility to set a precedent for future graduates and to demonstrate the value of their training through excellence and meaningful societal contributions.

Prof. Arulogun also urged the graduates to adopt innovative approaches to public health, advocating for evidence-based decision-making and active community participation in health interventions. She highlighted the importance of their work in influencing health policies and improving health outcomes.

Dr. Bankole Ayodele, the Registrar of the African Institute of Public Health Professionals, noted that the induction signifies the start of a professional journey for the graduates. He outlined the benefits of membership in the institute, including opportunities for professional networking, continuous development, and involvement in advocacy and community projects.

As Nigeria grapples with pressing health challenges, the voices of experts like Prof. Oyerinde and the commitment of new public health professionals will be vital in driving the necessary reforms to improve healthcare access and quality across the nation.