Navigating Challenges in Public Health Communication: A Peek Into Nigeria's COVID-19 and Immunization Efforts

When it comes to public health, the goal is clear: change behaviors, spread awareness, and improve health outcomes. This is where program communication comes in, and it has three key parts: advocacy, social mobilization, and communication. Advocacy is about getting politicians on board and making sure they follow through on their promises. Social mobilization, on the other hand, is about bringing different groups and individuals together to raise awareness and demand for a specific program. A recent study delved into these areas, focusing on health workers in Nigeria who are tackling COVID-19 and routine immunization. The research aimed to understand how these workers manage their communication efforts and the hurdles they face. Using a qualitative approach, the study involved in-depth interviews with health workers from the Advocacy, Communication, and Social Mobilization (ACSM) unit in six different states. The study found that while there are structures in place for ACSM activities across these states, there are significant barriers. The lack of technological devices, funds, data tools, and skills are major obstacles. Both government funding and support from local development partners keep these activities going, but the challenges remain. This highlights the need for strategic investments in technology, training for staff, and better resource allocation to overcome these hurdles.