The Lagos State government has restated its commitment to providing quality, inclusive, and technology-driven healthcare for all residents. This was announced at the recent health convention.
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was ably represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, at the first Eko Health Convention 2025, held at The Jewel Aeida, Lekki. It had the theme “Lagos Health: Driving Innovation, Strengthening Systems, Leading Change.”
Sanwo-Olu in his speech, said Lagos has made great progress in healthcare over the past six years. He listed new Maternal and Child Centres in Eti-Osa, Badagry and Epe; new General Hospitals in Ojo and Somolu; and the Lagos State Mental Health Institute in Ketu-Ejirin as examples of key projects. He described these as major investments that will serve the people for many years.
He explained that Lagos has also improved its ability to handle health emergencies through facilities like the Mainland Hospital, the Yaba Biobank, and the planned International Infectious Disease Research Centre. He said digital tools such as the Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP) and electronic medical records are helping hospitals to work more efficiently.
The Governor said health insurance remains central to achieving Universal Health Coverage. Through the ILERA EKO scheme and a new Executive Order making insurance compulsory for all residents, the government aims to protect citizens from unexpected medical costs. He added that more Lagosians will be enrolled through markets and community pharmacies.
Sanwo-Olu also announced that over 3,000 new health workers have been employed, and 28 ambulances and 10 motorbikes have been added to strengthen emergency medical services.
In her welcome address, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser on Health, said the convention’s purpose was to drive collaboration and innovation for lasting health impact.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, spoke on new projects such as the Massey Children’s Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Institute, and LASMISO Innovation Centre, which will support medical research and local production of health equipment.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr Olusegun Ogboye, said the government is focused on ensuring that every Lagos resident, rich or poor, can access quality care.
Dr Bodunrin Osikomaiya, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service, also introduced HaemoCentral, a digital platform that tracks blood from donors to patients.
In his goodwill message, Dr Dayo Adeyanju, representing the Federal Government, praised Lagos for its leadership and announced a new programme that will provide Mama Kits, free caesarean sections, and emergency transport for pregnant women.
