Urges proactive measures to combat malariaCommissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated this during an inspection of infrastructural projects such as the 150-bed Massey Street Specialist Children’s Hospital, the multi-level Car Park, Somolu General Hospital, LASUTH Resident Quarters, and Ojo General Hospital.
Abayomi embarked on the inspection with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Adekunle Olayinka, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Olusegun Ogboye, who expressed satisfaction at the progress of various medical infrastructure.
In a statement, Abayomi highlighted the transformative impact of the Massey Street Specialist Children’s Hospital, adding that it will redefine pediatric care not only in Lagos but also in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
“With sustainable engineering principles integrated into its design, the hospital boasts a capacity of 150 beds and a multi-level car park accommodating over 300 vehicles. Positioned as a referral centre for complex pediatric cases, the hospital is set to become a beacon of excellence in pediatric healthcare within Nigeria,” he said.
Abayomi emphasised the importance of revamping Somolu General Hospital to meet the growing population’s healthcare needs.He explained that the expansion plans, including a 120-bed facility with specialised services and accommodation for medical personnel, will reflect the government’s commitment to providing accessible, as well as quality healthcare services to all residents.
“In a bid to address the accommodation challenges faced by medical personnel, especially resident doctors, the government is constructing residential quarters adjacent to the House Officers quarters in the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
“The 10-storey building will provide comfortable living spaces for doctors undergoing specialised training, thereby enhancing their welfare and contributing to the retention of skilled healthcare professionals,” he said.
Furthermore, the commissioner underscored the significance of Ojo General Hospital, which, despite facing technical challenges, is progressing steadily to become a cornerstone in healthcare delivery for surrounding communities. “Upon completion, the hospital’s 288-bed capacity and extensive staff accommodation will ensure comprehensive healthcare services for residents in the region,” he noted.
Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Works commended the dedication of contractors and consultants involved in these transformative projects. He emphasised the government’s commitment to delivering sustainable and resilient healthcare infrastructure, with a focus on adherence to stringent standards and specifications.
MEANWHILE, the state government has urged residents to adopt preventive measures to combat malaria by focusing on community engagement and individual proactiveness.
The state’s Commissioner for Health made the call during an awareness and sensitisation walk held in Alausa, Ikeja to mark World Malaria Day 2024. In a statement by the Director of Public Affairs, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, the government underscored the role of maintaining a clean environment in the battle against malaria.
Represented by the Director of Disease Control, Dr. Rotimi Agbolagorite, Abayomi reiterated the urgency of this year’s theme, “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world,” and emphasised the need to escalate efforts against the disease.
The commissioner urged the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, and timely administration of antimalarial drugs as proactive steps to protect residents. He said while malaria is treatable and curable, negligence in adopting preventive measures can lead to severe complications.
Abayomi stressed the importance of intensifying awareness campaigns to improve citizens’ health-seeking behaviour, adding that negligence can exacerbate the severity of malaria cases.
Manager, State’s Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr Abimbola Osinowo, urged caregivers to ensure children between six months and two years receive malaria vaccination for effective prevention.
“The malaria vaccine is highly effective, having benefited nearly a million children in Ghana, Malawi, and Kenya. Caregivers should ensure their children receive vaccination, especially between 6 months and two years, to prevent severe forms of malaria,” she said.
Executive Director, Youth Development and Empowerment Initiative (YEDI), Mrs Tomisin Adeoye, commended the Lagos State government’s inclusive governance approach and reiterated YEDI’s commitment to malaria prevention through collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Health.