LASG PROBES TRAGIC MATERNAL DEATH, VOWS JUSTICE FOR VICTIM AND FAMILY

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi

...Commiserates with Bereaved Family, Says No Woman Should Die Giving Life.

The Lagos State Government has expressed deep sadness over the tragic death of a pregnant woman, Mrs. Folajimi, in Lakowe, Ibeju-Lekki. The incident has led to public outrage, as it allegedly involved a birth attendant and a private healthcare facility that denied her care due to a lack of financial deposit. "On behalf of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and the entire health family, I extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family affected by this tragic loss. No one should die during childbirth," the commissioner stated.

In response to the incident, the Lagos State Government is conducting a thorough investigation to examine the circumstances surrounding the death. The Lagos State Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), has formed a panel to uncover the details and identify any breaches in medical care standards. Initial investigations suggest that multiple parties, including a traditional birth attendant and the private hospital, were involved and are currently being interviewed.

The investigation focuses on several critical areas: verification of the registration status of the individuals and facilities with HEFAMAA, compliance with approved scopes of practice, adherence to emergency medical protocols, and identification of any negligence that contributed to the incident. A report from the panel is anticipated soon, and those found responsible will face legal consequences.

The Lagos State Government has reiterated that all healthcare facilities, public or private, must comply with HEFAMAA regulations, including accreditation and regular inspections. The government maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards facilities that operate illegally or fail to provide necessary emergency care, as such failures constitute a breach of medical ethics. 

We also wish to reiterate that no healthcare facility is permitted to deny emergency care to any patient, especially in life-threatening situations. It is a breach of medical ethics and regulatory obligations, and such acts will be met with strict penalties. We are also using this opportunity to reiterate government's position in enforcing compliance and regulation of nursing homes and Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) as a holistic strategy to strengthen the healthcare system.

The public is encouraged to report any healthcare facility that is not registered with HEFAMAA or is practicing beyond its accredited capacity, emphasizing the importance of using government-approved institutions for medical care. To enhance oversight, the government is intensifying monitoring efforts across all health establishments, ensuring they adhere to quality and safety standards.

Moreover, the Lagos State Government calls on community leaders, religious organizations, and healthcare professionals to collaborate in promoting maternal and child health. The government is committed to justice for Mrs. Folajimi and her family, assuring that accountability for negligence and breach of duty will be pursued vigorously.

In conclusion, the Lagos State Government extends its condolences to the Folajimi family and reaffirms its dedication to preventing similar tragedies in the future while fostering a safer healthcare environment for all residents.

LAGOS, ANPA EMPOWER HEALTH WORKERS TO COMBAT MATERNAL DEATHS

4th from left: Director of Medical Administration, Training and Programs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho

...As ANPA Marks 30th Anniversary with Lifesaving Training for Lagos Health Workers

...Weeklong Capacity-Building Programme Targets Maternal Mortality Reduction, Emergency Response and Kidney Disease Management

In a powerful collaboration to reduce maternal and child mortality in Nigeria, the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), in partnership with the Lagos State Government, has commenced a weeklong intensive capacity-building training for health workers across Lagos State, marking ANPA’s 30th anniversary with impact and purpose.

 Apart from reducing maternal and child mortality, the training also aims to improve emergency medical response and boost chronic disease management in public health facilities.

The training exercise, which began on Thursday, April 3, 2025, brings together healthcare professionals from secondary and primary health facilities across the state to upskill in critical areas, including obstetric emergencies, trauma response, life-saving interventions, and the management of chronic kidney disease.

Kicking off the programme was a comprehensive training on Obstetrics Emergencies, specifically Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH), held at Demeros Hotel and Suites, Agidingbi, Ikeja. The session drew 20 healthcare workers selected from 10 health facilities identified with high incidences of maternal deaths.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Medical Administration, Training and Programs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho described the training as a strategic move to curb maternal mortality by empowering frontline health workers. “This collaboration with ANPA is to build the capacity of our healthcare workers in managing one of the leading causes of maternal mortality—postpartum hemorrhage,” she said.

According to Dr. Erinosho, the selected facilities were chosen based on data indicating a high prevalence of PPH. She explained that the trained participants would not only return to improve care at their stations but would also be responsible for cascading the knowledge to colleagues, thereby institutionalising the life-saving skills across the state.

President of ANPA, Dr. Cliff Eke, who led the ANPA delegation from the United States, described this year’s ANPA Week as the most expansive in the association’s history. “This is the biggest of our ANPA weeks in 30 years. Lagos is the heartbeat of Nigeria, and what happens here can be replicated across the country,” he said.

Dr. Eke emphasized the importance of tackling postpartum hemorrhage, noting that it remains the number one killer of women during childbirth. “Losing over 500ml of blood after vaginal delivery, or 1000ml after a caesarean, can be fatal. This training equips our healthcare workers to prevent or manage such situations effectively,” he added.

The team lead for the obstetrics emergencies module at ANPA, Dr. Chinyere Anyaogu, reiterated the critical importance of early detection and aggressive intervention. “Postpartum hemorrhage can be catastrophic and happen quickly. Prevention and preparedness are key to reducing not just mortality but also long-term morbidity for mothers,” she noted.

She praised the Lagos State Ministry of Health for its commitment and described Lagos as a strategic launchpad for systemic change. “If we can make a dent in maternal mortality here, we can replicate the success across Nigeria,” she said.

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at FMC Ebute Meta, Dr. Odofin James Taiye, one of the facilitators, said the hands-on training would prepare participants to make critical decisions during emergencies. “We’re not just teaching theory; this is practical, life-saving work. Knowing when to escalate care can be the difference between life and death,” he said.

Participants at the training expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge and skills. Dr. Juliet Obiorah, Senior Medical Officer at Amuwo Odofin Maternal and Child Centre, described the session as timely and impactful. “I have learned to assess post-delivery bleeding thoroughly and when to escalate care to prevent fatalities,” she said.

Dr. Ogheneovo Okpare, Medical Officer at General Hospital, Gbagada, praised the organisers for the initiative. “This training has sharpened our skills in estimating blood loss, using uterotonics, and identifying birth canal injuries. We are ready to step down the training and improve maternal care in our hospitals,” he said.

Other key training sessions in the weeklong programme include “Stop the Bleed” and “Basic Life Support” sessions on Friday, April 4, at the LCCI Conference and Exhibition Centre in Alausa. A Chronic Kidney Disease training is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, while a two-day “Helping Babies Survive” workshop will round off the programme from April 7 to 8.

The ANPA 30th anniversary celebration, anchored on health equity and capacity building, continues to underline the association’s commitment to “giving back to the motherland” through impactful partnerships and service delivery.

As Lagos State continues to battle challenges of maternal and child mortality, the collaboration with ANPA represents a significant step forward in strengthening the state’s health workforce and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for its residents

Diphtheria Outbreak: Lagos Records 10 Confirmed Cases in Three Months

...Health Authorities Intensify Response Efforts

...Public Urged to Maintain Hygiene During Festive Period

...Government Partners WHO, UNICEF to Curb Spread

Lagos State has recorded 10 confirmed cases of diphtheria between January 1 and March 27, 2025, as health authorities intensify efforts to curb the outbreak. According to the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, suspected cases have fluctuated over the period, with some days recording as many as 15 cases and others as few as one.

Providing an update on the outbreak at the weekend, the Commissioner revealed that laboratory tests conducted on 76 samples confirmed 10 positive cases, while 63 samples returned negative results. "Another three samples collected on March 26 are still pending results", he said.

Prof. Abayomi disclosed that the outbreak has been reported in multiple Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Eti-Osa being the most affected, recording 44 suspected cases. According to him, other impacted LGAs include Alimosho, Badagry, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Ojo, Mushin, and Lagos Island, where various numbers of suspected and confirmed cases have been identified.

He emphasized that in the interest of public safety, all confirmed cases are mandated to remain on admission for treatment. He urged the public to cooperate with health authorities, noting that this measure is essential to prevent further transmission of the disease.

"As part of the state’s response, 21 individuals have received Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT) treatment, with King’s College, Eti-Osa, accounting for the highest number of recipients - 14. Other beneficiaries were from Lagos State Model School, Meiran, and various locations in Alimosho, Kosofe, and Badagry", the Commissioner said.

Abayomi stated that data analysis from the outbreak report shows that the outbreak peaked in the third, fourth, and tenth weeks of 2025, with four cases confirmed each week. He however, noted that a decline in the number of cases in recent weeks indicates that containment measures may be yielding positive results.

"The state government has intensified contact tracing efforts, with 118 individuals identified as potential contacts of infected persons. Out of these, follow-up has been completed for 100 individuals, while 18 are still pending. Additionally, 36 individuals across affected LGAs have received prophylaxis to prevent further spread", he said.

Prof. Abayomi noted that confirmed cases have been linked to locations such as King’s College in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State Model School, Meran in Alimosho LGA, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in Mushin, De-Emmaculate School, Mile 12 in Kosofe LGA, and Gbara Junior Secondary School in Eti-Osa LGA. "These areas remain focal points for intensified interventions, including targeted vaccination campaigns and public awareness efforts", he added.

The Commissioner reiterated that vaccination efforts targeting close contacts of index cases, suspected patients, and frontline health workers remain ongoing. He disclosed that a total of 36,310 individuals have been vaccinated so far. This, according to him, includes 7,473 individuals aged 9 to 17 years and 28,837 individuals aged 18 years and above, among whom 13,633 are healthcare workers. He further disclosed that risk communication and public health sensitization efforts, which commenced at the onset of the outbreak, have been reinforced through community-based social mobilization and media campaigns.

As Lagos residents prepare for Eid-el-Fitr, Easter celebrations, and the second-term school vacation, the Commissioner urged strict adherence to precautionary measures. He advised the public to maintain high levels of hygiene, wash hands regularly, use sanitizers, and avoid crowded places.

He emphasized the need for prompt reporting of symptoms such as cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, red eyes, neck swelling, and thick grey or white patches on the throat. “Reporting these symptoms immediately can save lives and prevent further transmission of diphtheria,” he stressed, adding that treatment for suspected cases is available free of charge at designated government health facilities.

Prof. Abayomi commended the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his swift and strategic intervention in containing the outbreak. He also acknowledged the support of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF in providing technical assistance and resources to combat the disease.

He assured Lagosians that the state government, through the Ministry of Health and its partners, is intensifying surveillance, treatment, and prevention efforts. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates. Residents are advised to stay informed and adhere to all public health advisories,” he said.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, urging them to cooperate with health authorities to mitigate the outbreak and prevent future occurrences.

Signed 

Tunbosun Ogunbanwo 

Director, Public Affairs 

30th March, 2025

HIV: Lagos Tasks Residents on Empathy During Eid Celebration

CEO, LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun

The Lagos State Government has urged residents to demonstrate love and empathy towards individuals living with and affected by HIV during the Eid celebration.

The Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, made this call during a virtual interview. She stated that the Eid celebration, which marks the end of Ramadan, is a period of reflection, compassion, love, and an opportunity for all to support one another.

Dr. Animashaun emphasized the need for all members of the community to redefine the narratives around HIV through the show of love and acceptance. She added that showing solidarity will go a long way in sending a powerful message that no one should face the challenge of living with HIV alone.

"As we approach the joyous occasion of Eid Fitri, the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) calls upon all residents to embrace the spirit of love, unity, and compassion that this celebration embodies. Eid Fitri marks the end of Ramadan, a month of reflection, charity, and community, and it is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to come together in support of one another."

She stressed that residents should extend compassion in the spirit of Eid and reach out to those who may feel isolated or stigmatized due to their health status. She noted that a small act of kindness, such as a simple visit or a gift, can drastically impact someone's day and sense of belonging.

While emphasizing the need to intensify efforts in raising awareness geared towards HIV prevention and management, the Chief Executive Officer stated that adequate education is crucial in the prevention and control of HIV. She urged all residents to take the opportunity of the season to discuss HIV with friends and families, so as to foster an understanding that can help dissolve misconceptions and create a more supportive community.

"In the spirit of this festive season, we encourage everyone to show love and solidarity towards all members of our community, particularly our brothers and sisters living with HIV. This year, let us collectively make an effort to foster an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes understanding."

Animashaun expressed optimism that through unity and proactive engagement, Lagos can work towards achieving an HIV-free generation. She assured that the agency will continue to educate the public and promote health initiatives, especially in the management and control of HIV in the state.

She reaffirmed that HIV testing and counseling services remain free at all designated healthcare facilities in the state, highlighting the government's commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly in the control and management of HIV in the state.

Lagos Charges Residents on Proactive Measures Against HIV Spread

Chief Executive Officer, LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has issued a strong call to residents to remain vigilant and actively engage in prescribed guidelines against the spread of HIV and AIDS in the state.

Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in tackling the HIV epidemic during a virtual interview. "Individuals must take responsibility for their own health as well as that of the community," she said.

"HIV remains a major public health concern, and prevention is our most powerful tool. We urge all Lagos residents to adopt safe practices, get tested regularly, and seek medical support where necessary. Ending HIV transmission requires a united front, and together, we can achieve an HIV-free generation."

Dr. Animashaun encouraged residents to adopt practices that minimize the risk of HIV transmission, including:

• Engaging in safe sex practices
• Avoid the sharing of sharp objects like needles and blades
• Undergoing regular HIV testing for early detection and management
• Seeking immediate medical support when necessary

She emphasized the need to intensify efforts in raising awareness geared towards prevention, treatment, and fulfilling collective responsibility in practising safe sex and ensuring everyone is properly informed on how the virus is transmitted.

"We urge all Lagos residents to adopt safe practices, get tested regularly, and seek medical support where necessary. Ending the transmission of HIV is not solely the responsibility of the government and health institutions but requires a united effort from all citizens to ensure everyone is well-informed."

The Chief Executive Officer reiterated the agency's commitment to the Health and Environment Mandate of the THEMES PLUS AGENDA. The agency has been instrumental in coordinating HIV & AIDS control programs, including public awareness and sensitization, and regular free screening and counselling services across the state.

"As an agency, we are dedicated to educating the public and implementing health initiatives that align with our mission. We remain steadfast in our commitment to this cause and will continue to work diligently towards creating a healthier and safer community for all."

Dr. Animashaun noted that HIV testing and counseling services remain free at all designated healthcare facilities in the state, highlighting the government's commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly in the control and management of HIV in the state.

She expressed optimism that through unity and proactive engagement, Lagos can work towards achieving an HIV-free generation. The agency will continue to educate the public and promote health initiatives, especially in the management and control of HIV in the state.

Japa: UK stops Nigerian students, others from bringing dependants.

The UK government has finally decided on the lingering issue of restricting Nigerian students from bringing their families into the country.

In a report by Punch Correspondent, Deborah Tolu-Kolawole: The Home Office of the United Kingdom on Monday announced that it had commenced the implementation of its policy banning Nigerian students and other overseas students from bringing in dependants via the study visa route. The paper quoted the Home Office as saying, "We are fully committed to seeing a decisive cut in migration. From today, new overseas students will no longer be able to bring family members to the UK. Postgraduate research or government-funded scholarships students will be exempt.”

Has this decision marked the end of Jappa syndrome that has affected not only the health sector but other major sectors in Nigeria? Are Nigerians going to look towards other countries or will they remain in Nigeria to contribute their quota to the development and growth of the most populous country in Africa?

Addresses and Names of Tutors-General/Permanent Secretaries In Lagos State Education Districts

NOTE: Click the highlighted text below for the updated names of the TGs/PSs

The Lagos State Government has approved the appointment of three Tutor-General/Permanent Secretaries: Mrs. Florence Adebola Ogunfidodo, Mr Yinka Gbemi Olaniyi and Mrs. Margaret Titilayo Solarin. The appointment according to a statement by the Head of Service, Mrs. Josephine Oluseyi Williams takes effect from Tuesday, December 31, 2013. 

The swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, 6th November 2013 at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.

The six Education Districts in Lagos State are headed by the following Tutors General/Permanent Secretaries:

Please, click here for the updated names of the Tutors General/Permanent Secretaries in the State

• I- Mrs. Ayandele Olufolayimika Abiose
• II- Mr. Yinka Gbemi Olaniyi
• III- Mrs. Margaret Titilayo Solarin
• IV- Mrs. Lola Are- Adegbite
• V-  Mrs. Florence Ebunoluwa Oluwasuji
• VI-  Mrs. Anifowoshe Amidat Abiola

Addresses:
Education District I
C/o Diary Farm Primary Schools Complex,
Agege, Lagos.

Education District II
Maryland Schools Complex,
Maryland, Ikeja.

Education District III
St. George's Primary School,
Opposite Falomo Shopping Complex,
123, Awolowo Road,
Ikoyi, Lagos.

Education District IV
Domestic Science Centre,
8, Mc Ewen Road,
Sabo-Yaba

Education District V
Agboju Schools Complex
Agboju-Lagos.

Education District VI
Ideal Primary School Premises,
Opposite Ewenta Nursery/Primary School,
Oshodi-Lagos.

Addresses of Lagos Education Districts and Names of the TGs/PSs

Below are the addresses for the Education Districts in the State:

• Education District I: C/o Diary Farm Primary Schools Complex, Agege.

• Education District II: Maryland Schools Complex, Maryland, Ikeja.

• Education District III: St. George's Primary School, Opposite Falomo Shopping Complex at 123, Awolowo Road, Falomo, Ikoyi.

• Education District IV: Domestic Science Centre, 8, McEwen Road, Sabo-Yaba

• Education District V: Agboju Schools' Complex, Agboju, Mile 2 area.

• Education District VI: Ewenla Street, Near Charity Bus-stop, Oshodi.

Each Education District is headed by a Tutor General/Permanent Secretary to monitor and administer the day-to-day running of schools under it. 

Tutor Generals/Permanent Secretaries of the 6 Districts

1st on the Left: TG/PS, District 1, Mr Bashir Adebowale 

                                                    

TG/PS, District II, Mrs Anike Adekanye

3rd From Left: TG/PS, District III, Dr Mrs Olufunke Oyetola

2nd From Left: TG/PS, District IV, Mr Olusegun Osinaike

Former TG/PS, District V, Mr Fatai Lawal (RIP)

3rd From Left: TG/PS, District VI, Dr Mrs. Yusuf Shareefah Adejoke

NOTE: The TG/PS of Education District II, Mrs Anike Adekanye is supervising the Education District V due to the demise of Mr Fatai Lawal.

You may wish to familiarise yourself with the addresses and names of the Permanent Secretaries of the Lagos State Health Districts

Also, the LGs that make up each Education District Here

LGs That Make Up Health and Education Districts in Lagos

A school in Lagos

Logo of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board

LGs That Make Up Health and Education Districts in Lagos 

Each Education and Health District in Lagos State has some Local Government Areas, grouped under it, below are the divisions:

• Health and Education District I: Agege, Alimosho and Ifako-Ijaye

• Health and Education District II: Shomolu, Kosofe and Ikorodu (SKI)

• Health and Education District III: Epe, Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki and Lagos Island

• Health and Education District IV: Apapa, Surulere and Lagos Mainland

• Health and Education District V: Badagry, Ojo and Amuwo Odofin

• Health and Education District VI: Oshodi, Isolo, Mushin and Ikeja

You may also wish to familiarise yourself with the addresses and names of the Tutors General/Permanent Secretaries of the Districts, click here

Top 10 health questions Americans searched for on Google

Snoring

Jacqueline Howard, CNN, writes that in 2023, Google users in the United States wanted to know more about strep throat, how to lower cholesterol and what helps with bloating.

Those were just some of the top-trending health-related questions searched on Google in the United States from January 1 to November 27, according to the technology company.

“The data reflects top trending searches, which means the ‘trending’ queries are the searches that had a high spike in traffic over a sustained period in 2023 as compared to 2022,” Google spokesperson Sarah Armstrong said in an email.

I think many people worldwide have similar questions and are seeking solutions from experts. Have a good read.

About

I am a Public Relations practitioner with almost 20 years and 10+ years of experience in the Lagos State Education and Health sectors respectively. A member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Rotary Club International. I have a proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with reputable media outlets spanning Broadcast and Social Media. I am always ready to leverage my skills to communicate relevant, high-quality, timely information.

Skills

• Public/Media Relations
• Campaign management
• Social media expertise
• Communication management 
• Team Player 
• Patience

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Covid-19: HEFAMAA Says Renewal And Registration Of New Facilities Strictly Online … Urges Healthcare Facilities To Renew Annual Registration.

The Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, HEFAMAA, has said that application for registration of facilities and renewal of certificates shall strictly be done online.

Speaking yesterday in her office at Plot 6, Alhaja Ashabi Cole Street, Alausa, Ikeja, the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Dr Abiola Idowu explained that the decision was taken to optimize the use of the hefamaa e-platform which she said was developed to ease the process of registration by the users and give facility owners and the public the opportunity to interface with the agency.

She advised health providers who want to register their facilities or renew their certificates to log on to the official website of the Agency for necessary instructions adding that any facility that fails to renew its license between 1^st of January and 31^st of March 2021 will be sanctioned accordingly as she said, "it means such facilities are operating illegally."

She observed that the usage of the e-portal will go a long way in reducing the number of visitors to the Agency which she said is in tandem with the measures put in place by the Government to contain the spread of COVID-19.

She further explained that the Agency will no longer issue Assessment Form at its office stressing that service providers should generate invoices online for bank payment.

 “The Agency will no longer issue Assessment Form; therefore, we urge facility owners to generate the invoice for payment after uploading all the necessary documents to the portal," she explained.

Idowu, who emphasized the need to upload tellers generated after making the full payment at designated banks to the portal, also stated that the profile details used for processing 2020 renewal/registration are still valid.

She however charged facility operators in the State to improve the quality of healthcare services they provide to the citizens to actualize the Babajide Sanwo-Olu T.H.E.M.E.S Strategic Development Agenda.

For enquiries and to report facilities engaging in unprofessional conducts, she advised the public to call the Agency’s dedicated phone numbers including 09015637023, 09057273396, 09038795500 and 08172704228.

 

 

Muyideen Ayokunle Uthman

Wednesday, 20^th January 2021

Head, Public Affairs

HEFAMAA