The Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has received widespread acclaim for the successful implementation of the 'Eko Cares' initiatives. These initiatives are specifically designed to address the prevailing economic challenges not only within the state but also across the nation.
The ‘Eko Cares’ Initiatives, introduced by Governor
Sanwo-Olu in April of this year, serve as a comprehensive framework for various
poverty-reduction programs initiated by the Lagos State Government.
These include ‘Alafia Eko’, ‘Ounje Eko’ Sunday Market, ‘Eko
Fund Me’, ‘Alaafia Eko’, ‘Owo Isowo Eko’, and ‘Edinwo Owo Oko Eko’, all aimed
at easing the hardships of over 500,000 households in Lagos across four vital
sectors: transportation, education, health, and agriculture.
These efforts align with the Lagos government’s commitment
to improving the quality of life for its citizens across the 20 LGAs and 37
LCDAs.
Dr. Funmilayo Bankole, the Permanent Secretary of Lagos
Health District 1, along with other health professionals involved in the
campaigns, emphasized that the ‘Alafia Eko’ initiative focuses on safeguarding
the health and wellness of Lagos residents.
“Our goal is to screen individuals for silent health threats
such as hypertension and diabetes, preventing these issues from leading to
serious complications,” she stated.
During the ‘Alafia Eko’ event in Mushin LGA, one
participant, Mr. Tajudeen Adebowale, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are
truly grateful for this initiative. May God continue to bless the governor to
expand such programs, particularly in healthcare.”
At the Meiran intervention outreach, Alhaja Ajani Badru
expressed her happiness, stating, “We are thankful for the free healthcare
provided by Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
With the rising costs of medications, receiving
comprehensive treatment today at no charge is a blessing.” Similarly, Mr.
Adekojo Samuel conveyed his gratitude to the Governor for the eye tests,
medications, and eyeglasses he received.
At the Isolo outreach, Mr. Iyanu Temituro remarked, “The
program is exceptionally well-organized, and the medical staff were very
friendly. I benefited from two medical services for my gastrointestinal issues
and blood pressure.”
Mr. Abiodun Ayodele, a participant from the Surulere
outreach, also praised the initiative, saying, “I am grateful for what the
Lagos Governor has accomplished. I received a substantial amount of medication
and a new pair of eyeglasses.”
Beneficiaries from Apapa LGA also expressed their
appreciation for the Governor, dedicating Yoruba songs to him and referring to
him as a promise keeper. Among them were Mrs. Tawa Yusuf and Mrs.
Oloofa Bola, who received free eyeglasses, along with Mrs. Aremu Lateefat, Mr. Rasheed Raheem, and Mrs. Saratu Ishola, who all benefited from free medications and medical services. They hailed the health initiative as a significant achievement and a tremendous relief for their community.
Dr. Saheed Tajudeen, a volunteer at the Igbogbo, Ikorodu
outreach, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the turnout for the ‘Alafia Eko’
initiative, highlighting the program’s success.
He noted, “Many individuals in the community typically do
not visit our Primary Health Centre, and it is commendable that Lagos State has
taken the initiative to provide medical services directly to them.” This phase
of the ‘Alafia Eko’ health initiative also included visits to Ikorodu North
LCDA and Ikotun LCDA.
The ‘Eko Cares’ program is overseen by the Special
Dispensation Advisory Committee on Social Interventions (SPEDAC), a
non-partisan organization established to guide the government on various
initiatives aimed at assisting those affected by the current economic challenges
in the country.