Nigeria Health Watch has launched the Nigeria Health Watchers Network, a student ambassador programme designed to equip students across Nigeria with practical skills and exposure to public health advocacy, communication, storytelling and evidence-informed engagement.

The inaugural cohort comprises 30 students selected from more than 4,145 applications received from students studying medicine, pharmacy, public health, medical laboratory science, health sciences and other related disciplines across Nigeria.

The four-month-long programme, running from September to December 2026, combines skill development, mentorship, content creation and community engagement. It is designed to help students better understand Nigeria’s health system and develop the skills to communicate credible health information and participate meaningfully in public health advocacy.

‘’The Nigeria Health Watchers Network is about more than training students. It is about building a network of informed students who can understand health issues such as maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive health and rights, universal health coverage, health security etc, engage with credible evidence and bring important health conversations closer to their peers and communities,” said Chibuike Alagboso, Director, Media Programmes, Nigeria Health Watch. “By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to engage with health issues and advocate for evidence-informed action, we hope to strengthen public engagement and contribute, over time, to a better and more responsive health sector in Nigeria.”

Building informed voices for health

Many students graduate without meaningful exposure to Nigeria’s health policy, advocacy and public engagement ecosystem. The Nigeria Health Watchers Network is designed to help bridge this gap by giving students practical opportunities to understand how the health system works, explore health priorities and learn how to communicate evidence in accessible ways.

The programme covers the Nigerian health system, public health advocacy and communication, media engagement, storytelling, evidence-informed advocacy and career development in public health. Participants will also learn how evidence can be translated into accessible information that can support informed public engagement.

As Nigeria Health Watchers, participants will connect Nigeria Health Watch with their campus communities by disseminating credible health content, developing original stories with editorial support, participating in learning sessions and health engagements, and amplifying health campaigns through digital platforms.

From learning to action

The programme combines structured learning with opportunities for participants to apply what they learn. Throughout the four months, ambassadors will take part in content creation, assignments, community engagement and selected Nigeria Health Watch activities.

This approach will help participants strengthen their ability to interpret evidence, communicate health information responsibly and contribute to public health advocacy.

Participants will also have opportunities to interact with public health professionals, policymakers and other health leaders, while building peer networks and gaining experience in health writing, digital communication and advocacy.

The programme will culminate in a graduation and transition into a lifetime alumni network, enabling participants to remain connected to one another and to Nigeria Health Watch beyond the four-month programme.

About Nigeria Health Watch

Nigeria Health Watch is a Nigerian non-profit organisation that uses evidence, advocacy and strategic communications to improve health outcomes and strengthen accountability in Nigeria’s health sector. Through research, policy engagement, media, storytelling and public engagement, Nigeria Health Watch works to make health information more accessible and support action on critical health issues.

For more information, visit [www.nigeriahealthwatch.com].

Media Contact

Onyinye Oranezi
Strategic Communications Coordinator
Nigeria Health Watch
Email: OOranezi@nigeriahealthwatch.com
Phone: 08164843738