Key Highlights

1. Opening Remarks – A Call to Collaboration
Mrs. Zouera Youssoufou, MD/CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation and Chair of the Conference, emphasized the vital role of private sector collaboration in driving systemic health reforms. She highlighted the impact of PSHAN’s Adopt-A-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP), which aims to transform one primary healthcare facility in every local government across Nigeria into a model centre of care.

2. Keynote Address – Leapfrogging Healthcare Through AI
Mr. Fred Swaniker, Founder and CEO of Sand Technologies, delivered a compelling keynote titled “Reimagining African Healthcare in the Age of AI.” He spotlighted Africa’s alarming doctor-to-patient ratios—1:9,000 in Nigeria; 1:66,000 in South-Sudan; and 1:300 in high income regions (US/Europe). He further introduced a bold idea where AI-enabled tools could bridge this gap. Mr. Swaniker also showcased innovations such as AI-assisted diagnostics, portable MRI devices, and real-time data systems like the National Health Intelligence Centre. He stressed that technology, while critical, must be paired with storytelling and cultural relevance to drive adoption and trust.

3. Creative Industry as a Vehicle for Health Investment
Moderated by Mr. Amana Agu, Creative Industry Expert, the panel session themed “Creative Innovation for Sustainable Healthcare: Lessons from the Creative Industry” brought together leading voices from across the creative and health sectors. Panelists included Mr. Segun Arinze, Veteran Nollywood Actor/Producer; Ms. Iretiola Doyle, Veteran Nollywood Actor/Producer; Dr. Kaffy Shafau, CEO/Creative Director, Kaffy Kreative Agency; Mr. Abuchi Peter Ugwu, CEO, Chocolate City Music and Co-Founder, Bean Creative IMC; and Dr. Egemba Chinonso Fidelis (Aproko Doctor), Medical Doctor and Storyteller.

Discussions explored the role of storytelling, music, dance, and media in transforming public health narratives, shifting cultural perceptions, and increasing community engagement with health interventions. Panelists emphasized the emotional and cultural resonance of creative expressions, and how these tools can be harnessed to drive awareness, promote behavioral change, and mobilize public and private investment in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

4. Masterclass Session I – Women’s Health and Multi-Sector Innovation
Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynecology; Founder, WARIF, led an insightful masterclass on “Reimagining Women’s Health: The Role of Multi-Sector Collaboration in Transforming Healthcare Delivery”. She presented staggering statistics on maternal mortality and gender-based violence, advocating for a multi-sector response that includes survivor-centered care, creative media advocacy, and the training of community gatekeepers to shift societal norms from the ground up

5. Masterclass Session II – Storytelling as a Catalyst for Systems Change
Mr. Amaechi Okobi, Chief Brand & Communications Officer at Access Corporation in his masterclass session titled “Storytelling as a Catalyst for Healthcare Transformation”, urged healthcare leaders, practitioners, and advocates to leverage storytelling to humanize care, build empathy, shift public perception, and drive behavioural change. Drawing from global case studies including digital campaigns, community radio dramas, and grassroots video content; Mr. Okobi outlined how effective health narratives can demystify complex medical issues, influence funding decisions, and mobilize communities toward action.