Public health challenges cannot be addressed in isolation — Chibuzor Amadi

In an exclusive interview with Tribune, Según Adebayo speaks with Chibuzor Stella Amadi, a health researcher and educator, decries FG’s wrong approach to public health issues. She speaks on her exploits, research, and unwavering commitment to improving public health in Nigeria and beyond. For her, Public Health is not just a Career…It’s a Responsibility.

Your work in public health is impressive. What inspired your journey into this field?

My passion for public health stems from my desire to make healthcare accessible and proactive rather than reactive. I realised early that many health issues could be prevented with the right knowledge, policies, and interventions. Public health allows me to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact, ensuring that communities receive the care and education they need.
Additionally, growing up in a society where many preventable diseases continue to claim lives due to poor healthcare infrastructure, misinformation, and inadequate policies motivated me to be part of the solution. I strongly believe that health is a fundamental human right, and through research and advocacy, I can contribute to making healthcare systems more effective and inclusive.

You have emphasised the importance of translating knowledge into action. Can you elaborate on this?

Absolutely. Knowledge in public health is only valuable when it reaches the people who need it. It’s not just about publishing research or analysing data, it’s about implementing findings in ways that improve lives. A well-researched policy or health intervention is only as good as its ability to create real change.
For example, we know that proper sanitation and hygiene practices can reduce the spread of infectious diseases. However, in many communities, there is still a lack of clean water and proper waste disposal systems. Research helps us identify these gaps, but taking action, whether through policy changes, infrastructure development, or community education, is what truly makes a difference.

Your academic journey has taken you through Nnamdi Azikiwe University, the University of Lagos, and now Western Illinois University in the U.S.A. How has education shaped your approach to public health?

Education has been the backbone of my career. My background in human physiology gave me a deep understanding of the science behind health issues, while my ongoing master’s degrees program in public health has equipped me with the tools to analyse trends, assess health policies, and develop effective programs. Education helps us make informed decisions that protect and improve lives.
Beyond the theoretical aspects, my education has given me practical exposure to different healthcare systems. Studying in different institutions has allowed me to compare public health challenges and solutions across different regions. This has strengthened my ability to develop adaptable interventions that can work in different socio-economic settings.

You previously served as a Senior Health Manager at Como Consult Ltd. What were some of the key lessons from that role?

One major lesson was that many people only seek medical attention when things have already gone wrong. Public health is about prevention—equipping people with the right knowledge before diseases become severe. In my role, I designed wellness programs that focused on early interventions, lifestyle changes, and community engagement.
Another key lesson was the importance of stakeholders’ collaboration. I worked with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders to ensure that health initiatives were effective and sustainable. Public health challenges cannot be addressed in isolation; they require a multidisciplinary approach.

Your research focuses on proactive health solutions. What are some of the key areas you are working on?

My work is centered on improving healthcare accessibility, enhancing community health outcomes, and addressing disparities in public health. I am particularly interested in innovative, evidence-based interventions that help bridge gaps in healthcare services.
One area I am deeply invested in is maternal and child health. Many maternal deaths can be prevented with proper prenatal care and health education. I am working on research that explores how community health workers can be empowered to provide better care and reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in rural communities.
I am also involved in telehealth research, particularly on how digital health solutions can improve healthcare delivery in remote areas. Technology has the potential to bridge the healthcare gap in underserved communities, and I believe it should be leveraged more in public health strategies.

Beyond research, you are also involved in advocacy. How do you balance both?

I see research and advocacy as two sides of the same coin. Research provides the evidence needed to drive change, while advocacy ensures that the findings influence policies and community action. My role allows me to work with policymakers, healthcare providers, and local communities to implement sustainable interventions that improve public health.
Advocacy is particularly important in influencing government policies. For instance, data may show that certain diseases are on the rise, but if policymakers do not act on this information, the problem persists. That is why I actively engage with organisations that push for policy changes based on scientific findings.

You have collaborated with various healthcare professionals. How have these experiences shaped your perspective?

Collaborations have reinforced the importance of being proactive and adaptable. In public health, sometimes the difference between life and death is how quickly and effectively we respond to crises. Knowledge is essential, but action is what truly makes an impact. I have learned that teamwork is crucial in driving real change.
Working with experts in different fields has also given me a broader perspective on healthcare delivery. For example, collaborating with epidemiologists has helped me understand disease patterns, while working with nutritionists has expanded my approach to tackling malnutrition. Public health is truly an interdisciplinary field, and learning from others has strengthened my approach.

What other initiatives are you involved in?

I believe that public health is a responsibility, not just a career. Through various initiatives, I advocate for health education, policy development, and community engagement. Empowering individuals with knowledge and resources is key to building a healthier society.
I have been involved in organising free health screenings in low-income communities, developing mentorship programs for young public health professionals, and conducting health literacy workshops. I also work closely with grassroots organisations to ensure that public health programs are culturally relevant and effectively implemented.
My goal is to continue expanding my work, ensuring that research and advocacy reach those who need them most. The future of public health lies in collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to serving communities. I want to be part of that movement, driving sustainable and impactful change.
I also hope to contribute more to health policy formulation, ensuring that research findings translate into concrete actions at the governmental level. Additionally, I am exploring opportunities to integrate more technology-driven solutions into public health interventions.

The Nigerian public health sector faces numerous challenges. What is the way forward for improving public health in Nigeria?

It requires a multi-faceted approach. Strengthening primary healthcare services will ensure accessible and timely care, while investing in health infrastructure and workforce development will improve hospital conditions and reduce brain drain. Public health education and awareness campaigns can help prevent diseases, and leveraging digital health solutions like telemedicine can expand healthcare access.
Effective policy implementation and improved healthcare financing—such as expanding the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and fostering public-private partnerships—are crucial for reducing out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, prioritising research and data-driven decision-making will enhance policy effectiveness.
Ultimately, collaboration between the government, private sector, NGOs, and communities is essential in building a resilient and sustainable healthcare system. With strategic investment in prevention, accessibility, and innovation, Nigeria can transform its public health sector and secure a healthier future for all.
There is also a need to strengthen disease surveillance systems, by leveraging technology, promoting accountability and with the right leadership and collective effort, Nigeria can overcome these challenges and create a healthier future.