SFH Marks 40 Years Of Transforming Healthcare In Nigeria

The Society for Family Health (SFH) marked its four decades of innovation, resilience, and impact in public health while commiting to future innovations and partnerships.

The 40th anniversary event, themed Celebration of Impactful Partnerships, brought together leaders from government, the private sector, international development organisations, and grassroots groups to honor SFH’s achievements and outline its vision for the future.

Delivering the keynote address, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, lauded SFH’s role in transforming healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

“SFH’s journey is a testament to intentional leadership, bold vision, and strategic collaboration. Over 40 years, the organisation has not only changed lives but reshaped the health landscape of Nigeria, empowering communities and addressing some of our most pressing health challenges,” he said.

The event also saw the launch of Intentionality: Society for Family Health’s 40 Years Odyssey of Bold Vision, Institutional Resilience, and Enduring Impact. The book chronicles SFH’s pioneering efforts in improving public health through innovative solutions, capacity building, and partnerships.

It also highlighted the organisation’s adaptability in addressing emerging challenges such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, Ebola, and COVID-19.

SFH’s Managing Director, Dr. Omokhudu Idogho, shared the organisation’s accomplishments, including averting over 89 million Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), preventing 50 million deaths, achieving 58 million Couple Years of Protection (CYPs), and avoiding 62 million unintended pregnancies in Nigeria.

These achievements underscore SFH’s commitment to improving maternal and child health, addressing non-communicable diseases, and expanding healthcare access to underserved communities.

Dr. Idogho also introduced SFH’s new strategic vision, Beyond Boundaries: 2024–2030, which focuses on leveraging technology, innovative financing, and community-driven models to ensure equitable and sustainable healthcare. “SFH is committed to creating a resilient and inclusive health system, driven by data, partnerships, and innovation. The journey ahead requires us to think boldly and act intentionally,” he noted.

Founded in 1983 by Justice Ifeyinwa Nzeako, Professor Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, and Mallam Dahiru Wali, SFH was established to address Nigeria’s maternal health crisis. Over four decades, the organisation has expanded its scope, working across diverse health areas and collaborating with governments, development partners, and local communities.

“SFH’s success is built on intentionality and partnerships,” said the President of SFH Board of Trustees, Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide.

“From grassroots engagement to national health reforms, SFH’s ability to bring stakeholders together has been central to its impact,” she added.

The event featured a panel discussion on healthcare innovation, an awards ceremony honoring key partners, and the unveiling of CoElevate, a mentorship initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to drive health transformation in Nigeria.

As Nigeria’s health sector undergoes transformative reforms under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, SFH remains a pivotal partner in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“SFH’s work aligns seamlessly with national priorities, providing a model for sustainable and community-centered health systems,” said Professor Pate.