The Nigerian Government has renewed its focus on childhood hearing health, unveiling plans to strengthen prevention, early detection and treatment services across the country.
Speaking to mark the 2026 World Hearing Day, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, said a large proportion of hearing loss among children can be avoided through routine immunisation, prompt treatment of ear infections and early screening.
He noted that many cases stem from preventable factors, including untreated infections, prolonged exposure to loud noise and limited access to early diagnostic services.
According to him, undetected hearing impairment can significantly affect a child’s speech development, academic performance and long-term social integration.
As part of new reforms, the minister announced the expansion of the National Eye Health Programme to cover ear and sensory health services, broadening its scope to address hearing-related challenges more effectively nationwide.
Under the revised structure, designated health officers in all states and the Federal Capital Territory will oversee coordination of both eye and hearing services, while new guidelines and policy frameworks are being developed to integrate hearing care into primary healthcare delivery.
Salako also disclosed plans to scale up newborn hearing screening and introduce periodic hearing assessments in schools to ensure early identification of cases.
He urged parents, teachers and healthcare providers to pay attention to early warning signs such as delayed speech, lack of response to sound or recurring ear problems, stressing that timely intervention can prevent lifelong complications.
About the Author
