Lagos Govt. Begins Free Medical Outreach, Releases Locations

Source: The Next Edition

The Lagos State Government free medical outreach - "Alafia Eko", aimed at providing essential healthcare services to 50,000 residents, will begin on May 30 at the six health districts in the state.

The state's Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, said this in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.

Omotoso said the initiative was in fulfillment of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu's promise at his Feb. 22, Media Chat and part of the broader Eko Cares Programme, which was meant to reduce the hardship of the present economic situation.

According to him, beneficiaries will have access to free check-ups and treatments, including blood sugar and blood pressure checks, HIV counseling and testing, eye examinations and free glasses.

He noted that there would also be treatment of minor ailments, free medications, health insurance and Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) registration.

The commissioner emphasised that the initiative was critical 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."

He said that each health district would host four outreach events in the first phase, targeting around 1,000 residents per event, for a total of approximately 25,000 individuals for the first phase.

Omotoso listed the specific locations at the health districts as Health District 1- Helen Aderonke PHC, Egbe Idimu; Ifako-Ijaiye LGA Secretariat; Ipaja PHC, Ayobo Ipaja; and Agege Legislative Complex.

Health District 2 -- Papa Area, Oworo, Kosofe LG; Legislative Compound, Pedro, Bariga; Ikorodu West LCDA Secretariat, Owutu, Ikorodu and Agidi Comprehensive High School, Alapere, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA.

Health District 3 Epe Recreation, Epe; 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, Igbosere, Lagos Island; Astroturf Stadium Airways, Apapa and Aguda Praying Ground, Surulere.

Health District 5 - FHA Grounds, 23/24 Road, Festac Town, Amuwo Odofin LGA; Ojo LGA Secretariat; Suntan Beach, Badagry West LCDA and Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA Secretariat.

Health District 6 Methodist Primary School, Oshodi; Ejigbo Market, Ejigbo; Bishop Aggrey Place, Owo Street, Mushin; and Ikeja Under Bridge.

Omotoso noted that the first phase of the outreach would hold on May 30, followed by the second outreach on June 6.

He recalled that under Eko Cares, the government had offered free antenatal and child delivery to expectant women in all General Hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres in the state.

Omotoso said the government also reduced transport fares and food prices at Sunday Markets by 25 per cent with many residents benefiting from the initiative. (NAN)