By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
STRENTHENIGN MATERNAL and child healthcare while enhancing security infrastructure has become a top priority in Ogun State.
The government’s recent initiatives are significantly improving healthcare delivery, reinforcing security, and positioning the state as an economic powerhouse.
During the Ogun State Maternal and Newborn Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative (MAMII) event in Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun emphasised that leveraging technology and data has been instrumental in saving lives.
Represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, he reiterated that children’s health remains a priority under the state’s social welfare and well-being pillar (ISEYA).
A significant aspect of this initiative is the deployment of electronic medical records across all healthcare levels, improving patient outcomes and streamlining care coordination.
The revitalisation of primary healthcare centres across the state further strengthens grassroots medical services. The employment of 472 community health extension workers and the confirmation of 400 additional allied health staff mark a decisive step in boosting healthcare accessibility.
To ensure the availability and equitable distribution of essential medicines, the Ogun State Drug and Health Commodities Management Agency (OGDHMA) has been launched.
In addition, a free maternal transport service is now operational in a local government area, ensuring timely access to life-saving healthcare services.
Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, underscored the federal government’s commitment to expanding 774 healthcare facilities nationwide to provide free emergency treatment for maternal complications. He stressed the importance of educating mothers about their health to further reduce mortality rates.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, highlighted that the programme aims to eliminate maternal deaths by strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring equal access to life-saving interventions.
Programme coordinator Dr. Dayo Adeyanju added that fostering innovation within the health sector is critical to reducing maternal and child mortality.
Contracts between the federal and state governments and key stakeholders have been signed to reinforce this initiative.
Working With NAF To Boost Security
Meanwhile, the Ogun State government is reinforcing its security framework through a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Governor Abiodun, during a meeting with Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to transforming the Gateway International Airport into a vital trade, investment, and logistics hub.
A key aspect of this collaboration is the establishment of an Air Force base at the airport, aimed at bolstering security, fostering economic activities, and attracting investors.
The governor expressed gratitude to Air Marshal Abubakar for his proactive approach and willingness to support the initiative.
This security collaboration aligns with Ogun State’s vision of fostering a safe and economically prosperous environment.
The governor emphasised that enhancing airport security will not only accelerate the state’s aviation goals but also contribute to overall economic growth.
