The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for improved collaboration among all tiers of government to ensure the delivery of quality and efficient healthcare services at the grassroots level.
She noted that the financial autonomy granted to Local Government Areas by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has encouraged the execution of more people-oriented projects and accelerated socio-economic development at the community level.
The First Lady, represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, made the remarks during the commissioning of the 30-bed Senator Oluremi Tinubu Primary Health Care Centre located on Ijeh Road, Obalende. The facility was constructed by the Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
Expressing her delight at the commissioning, Senator Tinubu recalled that the Primary Health Centre in 2019 was not up to standard. She praised the transformation, describing it as in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
According to her, Nigeria will attain its full potential and achieve meaningful progress when adequate attention is given to the healthcare needs of citizens.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, lauded the LCDA for embarking on transformative community projects. He attributed such successes to the financial autonomy granted to local governments in the state.
The governor emphasized that the construction of health centres underscores the administration’s commitment to prioritizing the needs of the people. He commended the council chairman for increasing the monthly salary of doctors working in the centre to ₦800,000.
Governor Sanwo-Olu further stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) continues to demonstrate visionary leadership focused on building a Lagos that works for everyone.
Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Otunba Femi Pedro, also commended the council chairman, Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal, describing the improved performance as a testament to Governor Sanwo-Olu’s good governance. He encouraged other chairmen to emulate such outstanding service delivery.
Pedro revealed that he had advised the chairman on the project and was glad his counsel was heeded, resulting in a befitting edifice for primary healthcare.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, described Ikoyi as the heart of Lagos, deserving of beautiful infrastructure like the newly commissioned health centre.
She expressed joy that the project aligns with Goal 3 of the SDGs (Good Health and Well-Being), noting that residents of Obalende now have a cause for celebration. Orelope-Adefulire praised the council boss for leaving office on a high note and urged the community to make judicious use of the facility.
In his remarks, the council chairman, Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal, who assumed office in 2017, highlighted that his eight-year administration delivered impactful projects across all sectors. He said the PHCC is a reflection of what can be achieved through political will, supported by an engaged and cooperative citizenry.
Atanda-Lawal noted that the facility represents more than a medical centre; it is an asset and symbol of equity for residents of Ikoyi-Obalende and its environs. He attributed the success to the economic policies of President Tinubu, including the fuel subsidy removal, which increased revenue to local governments.
He thanked the SSA on SDGs for providing equipment support for the centre and appreciated residents for holding him accountable throughout his tenure.
Speaking on behalf of Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeyemi described the centre as a true success story and a symbol of responsive governance. She recalled the council’s swift response during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Adeyemi pledged that the district would provide uniforms for the hospital’s medical personnel. She also appealed to the Federal Government and the First Lady to consider building residential quarters for the health workers.
