HELC, in collaboration with Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL), has undertaken a significant initiative to develop a comprehensive Public Health Legal Assessment Toolkit and Training Guides for the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). These resources serve as essential tools to assess Nigeria’s existing legal and policy framework, ensuring compliance with the International Health Regulations (IHR) of 2005.
The toolkit comprises a detailed and systematic manual designed to assist authorities in conducting a thorough evaluation of the country’s public health laws and regulations at the subnational level. By undertaking this assessment, any gaps or weaknesses in the legal framework that may hinder compliance with the IHR can be identified. The toolkit goes beyond mere identification and provides practical guidance on how to address these gaps effectively.
Through a collaborative and consultative approach, the toolkit and training guides enable authorities to compile and analyze existing public health laws and regulations specific to each state. The assessment process helps identify areas where legal and policy reforms are needed to enhance public health preparedness and response capabilities.
Once the assessment is complete and gaps are identified, the toolkit empowers states to draft and propose subnational health security bills. These bills are tailored to bridge the identified gaps while ensuring adherence to the Constitution and relevant national health security laws. By aligning legal and policy frameworks with international standards, Nigeria can strengthen its ability to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats effectively.
The Public Health Legal Assessment Toolkit and Training Guides serve as crucial resources in Nigeria’s journey towards achieving compliance with the IHR and strengthening the country’s health security. By facilitating a comprehensive analysis of the legal and policy framework, these tools support evidence-based decision-making and foster a resilient and robust public health system.
