In a significant move towards health sector reform, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, has announced the creation of six Health Districts under the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board. Alongside this development, the Governor recently approved the appointment of seven new Permanent Secretaries in the State Public Service, signalling a commitment to improving healthcare services in the state.
The new appointees include Dr. Cecilia Abimbola Mabogunje, Dr. Olufunmilayo Olabisi Bankole, Dr. Olutoyin Emmanuella Zamba, Dr. Abimbola Bowale, Dr. Oludayo Ibidunni Lajide, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, and Dr. Oladapo Olubanwo Asiyanbi. Each of these individuals brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their new roles, having held significant positions within the health sector.
Highlighting the purpose behind the establishment of the Health Districts, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the goal of delivering universal health services to every resident of Lagos State. He stated, “I am pleased to announce the unbundling of the Lagos health sector, a crucial move to address the existing gaps and ensure improved coverage for all residents. By creating six primary care districts, we are taking a proactive step towards delivering universal health services to every resident.”
The Governor’s decision to appoint medical practitioners as Permanent Secretaries underscores the administration’s commitment to quality healthcare provision. Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in their expertise and commitment, highlighting that their valuable experience would ensure the primary care districts operate at the highest standards and deliver quality care to residents.
Furthermore, the Governor stressed the significance of gender equality in leadership roles, stating, “It also gives me immense pride to share that gender equality was a top priority in the appointment of permanent secretaries. With a balanced division of men and women in these leadership roles, we are fostering inclusive decision-making and driving progress towards a stronger Lagos.”
The creation of these primary care districts aligns with the broader unbundling efforts undertaken by the Lagos State Government across various sectors. Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated his commitment to transformative reforms, stating, “Our vision for a Greater Lagos Rising demands transformative reforms. The expansion of administrative districts in the health sector is aligned with our unbundling efforts across various sectors. Together, we will achieve comprehensive health coverage and a brighter future for all.”
The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries will commence their tenure on July 10, 2023, and their deployment will take effect immediately. The Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, wished the appointees a successful tenure and urged them to prepare comprehensive handover notes for their previous MDAs.
With these recent developments, Lagos State takes a significant stride towards enhancing its healthcare system, with a focus on expanding coverage and ensuring quality care for all residents.
