50,000 Residents to Benefit as Lagos Launches Free Medical Outreach
Segun James
As part of efforts to provide adequate medical and health services to residents, the Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered a free medical outreach for 50,000 persons in the state, beginning today.
The initiative, which will be held in all six health districts, is in fulfilment of the governor’s promise during his February 22 media chat and part of the broader Eko Cares programme, which is meant to reduce the hardship of the present economic situation.
Beneficiaries will receive free check-ups and treatments, including blood sugar and blood pressure checks, HIV counselling and testing, eye examinations and free glasses. There will also be treatment of minor ailments, free medications as well as health insurance.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access for all residents, made the disclosure yesterday.
“We have finalised preparations to start the Alafia Eko medical outreach on May 30. Each health district will host four outreach events in the first phase, targeting around 1,000 citizens per event, for approximately 25,000 individuals for the first phase,” he said.
The programme, he said, will cover six health districts with specific locations for each, including “Health District 1: Egbe Idimu (Alimosho LGA), Ifako-Ijaiye LGA Secretariat, Ipaja PHC (Alimosho LGA), Agege Legislative Complex
“Health District 2: Kosofe LG (Papa area, Oworo), Bariga LCDA (Pedro), Ikorodu West LCDA Secretariat, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA (Alapere)
“Health District 3: Epe Recreation, Iberekodo Primary School (Ibeju-Lekki LGA), Ikota Primary School (Eti-Osa LGA), Resettlement area (Araromi community, Eti-Osa East LCDA)
“Health District 4: Evans Square (Ebute Meta), Mini Campos Stadium (Lagos Island), Astroturf Stadium (Apapa), Aguda Praying Ground (Surulere)
“Health District 5: FHA Grounds (Festac Town, Amuwo Odofin LGA), Ojo LGA Secretariat, Suntan Beach (Badagry West LCDA), Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA Secretariat
“Health District 6: Methodist Primary School (Oshodi), Ejigbo Market, Bishop Aggrey Place (Mushin), Ikeja Under Bridge.”
The first outreach will begin on May 30, he said, followed by the second outreach on June 6. Omotoso emphasised the significance of the initiative in improving primary healthcare efficiency and ensuring equitable access to quality medical services.
“This initiative reflects our administration’s strategic direction to transform the health sector into a significant contributor to the state’s economy, ensuring that every Lagos resident receives the medical care they need”, Omotoso said.
Also under Eko Cares, the government said it had slashed transport fares by 25 per cent, while there is free delivery for expectant women in all General Hospitals as many also enjoy a 25 per cent reduction in food prices on Sundays.
