The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in partnership with Resolve to Save Lives and other stakeholders, has launched a new legal reform guide aimed at strengthening public health systems across the country.
The Nigeria Subnational Public Health Legal Reform Guide is designed to help states review and modernise their public health laws while improving preparedness for disease outbreaks and other health emergencies.
Speaking at the launch, Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, represented by Dr Everistus Aniaku, said recent health emergencies have shown that effective response depends not only on resources and manpower but also on clear and modern legal frameworks.
He noted that unclear mandates and weak coordination mechanisms can delay critical decisions during emergencies, with serious consequences for public health.
According to him, the guide provides a framework for states to align their laws with emerging health threats, technological developments and international health regulations.
Stakeholders at the event stressed that strengthening legal preparedness remains a key component of Nigeria’s broader health security agenda.
The National Assembly also pledged support for efforts aimed at improving the country’s public health legal framework.
