By Doris Obinna
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has launched a five-year strategy and implementation plan, for the years 2017-2021.
The document detailing the strategy, which was launched by Minister for Health, Professor Issac Adewole, as a platform to closely monitor and support the work of the NCDC, seeks to create a strong vision for the NCDC underpinned by clearly defined principles and supported.
According to the National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the mandate of the current leadership of the NCDC activities started late 2016 to collaboratively develop a 2017-2021 strategic plan incorporating a new vision and mission to guide activities.
Said he: “The new vision for the NCDC agreed, after series of staff and stakeholder consultations, for healthier and safer Nigeria through the prevention and control of diseases of public health importance. This cascades into a mission statement, which is further broken down to five key strategic goals, with defined outcomes, 22 objectives and 89 corresponding activities for the 2017-2021 horizon.
“In addition, a performance management structure has been instituted to oversee and coordinate the execution of the multiple initiatives, as well as evaluate the progress made towards achieving the strategic goals.”
NCDC is Nigeria’s national public health institute with the mandate to provide a healthier and safer Nigeria through the prevention and control of diseases of public health importance. It is focused on protecting the health of Nigerians through evidence-based prevention, integrated disease surveillance and response activities, using a one-health approach, guided by research and led by a skilled workforce.
“Our vision is to build the confidence of Nigerians and the global community in the NCDC, in our preparedness to protect the health of citizens through information, inclusion and timely response to health concerns,” Ihekweazu said.
NCDC launches 5-year plan
