60, 000 Lagos residents ‘benefit’ from free health services

No fewer than 60, 000 Lagos residents have benefitted from the Eko Health Mission organised by the state government, governor Akinwunmi Ambode said on Tuesday.

Ambode, represented by his deputy, Idiat Adebule, gave the figure at the commencement of the Eko Health Mission in Mushin local government area of the state.

He said that the health mission was a grassroots intervention programme aimed at complementing established healthcare delivery system in the state.

“I am happy to note that since the commencement of this programme on March 1, over 60, 000 residents of Ojo, Oshodi/Isolo, Amuwo Odofin, Badagry, Ajeromi, Agege and Ikeja have benefitted from various health services,” he said.

“It is gratifying to note that among the beneficiaries are the elderly, pregnant women and people with disabilities.

“I urged residents of Mushin to take advantage of this opportunity to know their health statuses and receive treatment from our team of qualified medical personnel,” Ambode said.

Jide Idris, the commissioner for health, said that the programme would enable the state to ascertain the peculiar health challenges of the residents.

Idris said Badagry has a high rate of goitre while Mushin has a high rate of eye problems, diabetes and high blood pressure.

“The statistics will assist the government in planning for the health of the people in terms of budgetary allocation and policies.

“I urge our people to visit any of our primary healthcare centres whenever they have any health challenge for prompt medical attention,” he said.

Oluseye Oladejo, commissioner for special duties, warned that the government would sanction any health worker who would refuses to attend to the medical needs of the residents.

According to Oladejo, the government is investing much in the health sector and desires that the residents should take advantage of it to stay healthy.

The Eko Health Mission in Mushin LGA, which is rendering free diabetes, blood sugar, hypertension, eye, HIV and dental screening, will end on Friday.