The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Lagos State Government in its ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services. This pledge was made by WHO Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, during a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
According to a statement on WHO's website, Dr. Mulombo highlighted the organization's dedication to collaborating with Lagos State to strengthen healthcare reforms. He recalled Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to enhancing healthcare during their previous meeting at Chatham House in London, which has driven WHO's decision to partner with the state in advancing healthcare initiatives.
Dr. Mulombo emphasized WHO’s readiness to support Lagos in building a skilled and responsive healthcare workforce, noting that Lagos State leads the Health Insurance Scheme in Nigeria, surpassing the target of one million enrollees per state. He praised the state for attracting medical practitioners from the diaspora, contributing significantly to the national GDP, and setting a model for healthcare delivery.
WHO is set to pilot its global framework for strengthening healthcare emergencies in urban areas within Lagos State. Dr. Mulombo also addressed the ongoing cholera outbreak in the state, stressing the need for an escalated response to curb the spread and reduce fatalities. He underscored the importance of integrating health and environmental strategies for sustainable development.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed strong support for WHO’s initiatives and gratitude for their partnership. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing emergency preparedness, improving health infrastructure, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to build a resilient and healthy Lagos.
"We are dedicated to creating a healthier Lagos by investing in health infrastructure, promoting environmental sanitation, and ensuring access to clean water. WHO’s support is invaluable, and we look forward to continued collaboration to enhance the health and well-being of our people," Sanwo-Olu stated.
The partnership between WHO and Lagos State is seen as a significant step towards advancing health emergency preparedness in urban settings, with initiatives that include capacity building for health workers, enhancing disease surveillance, and implementing community-based health interventions.
