Nigeria’s first health radio station has opened in Lagos.
The station, which focuses purely on health-related issues and wellness, is located at Omole Estate Phase 2, Ikeja and transmits on WASH 94.9 FM.
Inaugurating the station in a simple ceremony recently, the Zonal Director of the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), Mr. Ralph Akpan, acknowledged that it is the first of its kind in the country, marking the birth of a specialized radio station. expressed his joy.
According to him, the establishment of a WASH radio station is a great initiative as it moves in the right direction at the right time.
“The station is for everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion or social class,” he stressed.
Mr. Akpan declared that since health is wealth, the contribution of radio stations to the health and well-being of the people and the economy at large will be immeasurable.
He commended its founder, Professor Ronke Ogunmakin, for her passion and resilience, especially for broadcast media on health-related issues, which she has traversed for over three decades.
He said NBC is proud of this initiative and is willing to endorse the use of any indigenous language to ensure it reaches all Nigerians, wherever they are in the country.
He pointed out that specialized radio stations like WASH FM are only needed to ensure that their content covers at least 70 percent of the focus topics.
The chairman of the event, Pastor Toba Akinboladun, also commended the founders and their team, saying that health and wellness is important for everyone.
According to him, every sane person not only wants to be alive but also to stay healthy and therefore WASH Radio is the best station to get the right information and education to stay alive and healthy. You will find it.
Prior to this, the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Professor of Mass Communication, Ms. Ronke Ogunmakin, in her opening remarks, expressed her gratitude to God and the people who have supported the realization of the vision for over 25 years. did.
She explained that the station was born out of a passion for community service to redefine healthcare communication in Nigeria by providing comprehensive content designed to promote the overall well-being of Nigerians. did.
According to her, Wash FM is ready to bridge the knowledge gap for both local and global audiences, making health education and knowledge accessible to all Nigerians, not just a few privileged Nigerians. I’m going to do it like this.
Dong emphasized that the station is more than just a broadcast station, but represents a commitment to transform health communication on diverse health issues and health in the country.
“The station is therefore committed to providing its listeners with accurate and relevant information that addresses gaps in medical awareness in line with global standards,” she stressed.
Mr. Ogunmakin pointed out that the achievement of all 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) depends primarily on the quality health and well-being of people, and noted that the radio station aims to help create healthier and more informed societies. He emphasized that the aim is to promote
Therefore, the station’s vision extends beyond traditional health reporting and supports environmental health, the adoption of innovative medical technologies, and the development of progressive health policy to influence positive behavior change and elevate the public health debate. We will also expand into areas such as advocacy.
Mrs. Ogunmakin said that for now, the agency’s air coverage is in and around Lagos, but it would soon expand to other parts of the country and other parts of the country.
