Y2025 World Malaria Day: Lagos Marches Towards Malaria Elimination

The Lagos State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Society for Family Health and Goodknight Nigeria, marked the Y2025 World Malaria Day with a vibrant awareness walk and a strategic stakeholders and media engagement aimed at galvanizing action towards malaria elimination. The commemorative events held in Alausa-Ikeja drew major public health stakeholders, development partners, and government officials under the theme: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.”

 

The awareness walk began with a colourful procession of health workers, volunteers, and partners through the Lagos State Government Secretariat and Alausa community, distributing educational materials and engaging the public on prevention strategies. The engagement climaxed at the Conference Hall of the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic, where the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, delivered a data-rich keynote address, asserting that Lagos is well on track to achieve malaria pre-elimination status with a prevalence rate currently at 1.3%.

 

Leading the charge at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated that “Lagos is now at 1.3% malaria prevalence and fast approaching pre-elimination as defined by the WHO. “Lagos has transitioned from 15% malaria prevalence in 2010 to just 3% in 2023. Now, as of March-April 2025, the most recent data shows that we are at an encouraging 1.3% prevalence rate,” declared Prof. Abayomi. “This means Lagos is clearly on the path to malaria pre-elimination, a historic milestone in our public health journey.”

 

Describing malaria as a vector-borne disease transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of accurate diagnosis and the use of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) for confirmed cases. “Early detection and correct treatment not only protect the infected person but prevent further transmission of the parasite to others,” he explained, stressing the need for citizens to trust malaria test results and avoid over-treatment.

 

He noted that despite the downward trend in malaria cases, the misuse of anti-malarial drugs remains prevalent. “Data shows that even with only 3% testing positive, over 50% of patients with fever are still being treated for malaria. This must change,” Prof. Abayomi warned, calling for intensified public enlightenment and responsible prescribing by health providers.

 

He further noted that vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children under five must remain a key focus. “Their immune systems are either underdeveloped or compromised. We must ensure that every case of fever is properly tested and every confirmed case is properly treated, especially in these groups.” He also highlighted the state's partnership with the World Health Organization, Federal Ministry of Health, and Pharmacy Council of Nigeria under the IMPACT Project as critical to Lagos’s push toward malaria elimination.

 

The Commissioner highlighted Lagos State’s 15-year commitment to the National Malaria Strategic Plan and acknowledged the roles played by previous Health Commissioners and dedicated public health workers. “This trajectory of success has been built through consistent testing, proper treatment, and robust data tracking,” he noted.

 

Abayomi praised the vision and political will of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has officially mandated the Ministry to lead the state into pre-elimination and, eventually, full eradication. “Mr. Governor has officially endorsed the malaria pre-elimination agenda. This is not just a declaration, it is a commitment backed by data, resources, and strong political will. We are proud that Lagos is leading the way in Nigeria and on the continent in rewriting the malaria narrative. With strong partnerships and sound policies, we are building a sustainable, evidence-driven pathway to a malaria-free Lagos,” he said.

 

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs) Kemi Ogunyemi, reiterated the importance of community engagement, awareness, and behaviour change. “The battle against malaria cannot be won solely in clinics and laboratories; it must be fought in our homes, schools, markets, and media spaces,” she said during her goodwill remarks.

 

Dr. Ogunyemi applauded development partners like Society for Family Health and Goodknight for their consistent support, especially in awareness creation and vector control. “Their collaboration amplifies our reach and educates the public on the simple but effective lifestyle changes needed to avoid malaria,” she stated.

 

She urged the media to remain steadfast allies in disseminating accurate health information. “You are the bridge between science and society. Help us educate Lagosians that not all fevers are malaria, and not all mosquitoes are equal,” she concluded.

 

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, urged participants to see themselves as advocates for malaria elimination and make wise health and economic choices in malaria prevention and treatment. “If you have a fever, get tested first. Only about 1.3 to 3 percent of fevers are actually malaria. So, 97 percent of people buying antimalarials may be wasting money,” he said.

 

He stressed the importance of leveraging the Ilera Eko Health Insurance scheme to access subsidized malaria testing and treatment, adding, “Let’s make our being here today count by spreading this knowledge in our communities, workplaces, and schools.”

 

In his remarks, Dr. Stanley Ugah, Project Director of the Society for Family Health (SFH) IMPACT Project, reiterated SFH’s alignment with the State Government’s “Test Before Treatment” policy. He noted that unnecessary antimalarial use without diagnosis is a major concern, and SFH supports the provision of quality-assured test kits and medications.

 

“We want to be part of the historic moment when Lagos is declared malaria-free,” he said. He added that through World Bank support, SFH is training healthcare providers and working with communities to raise awareness and strengthen grassroots malaria case management.

 

Also speaking at the event, Brand Manager of Goodknight Nigeria, Oluwatimilehin Dada, noted that the company was proud to be part of Lagos State’s malaria elimination journey. “Our mission aligns with the government’s vision to protect every household from mosquito bites and ultimately reduce malaria cases,” he said.

 

Dada expressed appreciation to the leadership of Lagos State for the opportunity to support the fight against malaria. He emphasized that Godrej, makers of the Goodknight brand, is dedicated to promoting health through innovative solutions. “We are here today to demonstrate our commitment to ending malaria. Our unique range of insecticide products from plug-in devices to Power Shot sprays, is designed to combat mosquitoes, the primary carriers of malaria,” he said.

 

He encouraged households to invest in Good Knight range of product solutions as part of their contribution to malaria elimination. “As the theme for this year reminds us – Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite, we must all take extra care in preventing malaria, get tested at the slightest sign, and avoid self-medication,” he advised.

 

In her remarks, the Public Health Physician for the Malaria Pre-Elimination and Digitization Project at Maisha Meds, Dr. Simisola Alabi, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to malaria eradication in Lagos State. Representing the Country Manager of Maisha Meds, Dr. Alabi explained that the organization is working in close partnership with the Lagos State Government to accelerate the journey towards malaria pre-elimination through technology-driven solutions.

 

 “Our key message is to test before you treat. We’re empowering Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs), Community Pharmacists, and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to properly diagnose and manage malaria cases,” she stated. Dr. Alabi highlighted that Maisha Meds operates in over 4,700 sites across Africa and is leveraging digital technology to address gaps in healthcare delivery.

 

She praised Lagos State for its forward-thinking approach and reiterated the importance of innovation in public health. “Technology is powerful, and with Lagos State’s commitment to progress, we are confident that we can bring the malaria burden down to less than one percent and eventually eliminate it entirely,” she said.

 

Also speaking, the Assistant Public Health Officer for the World Health Organization (WHO), Aisha Abdulkareem, highlighted global trends and the urgent need for renewed commitment. She said, “An estimated 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths have been averted globally in the last two decades, but progress has stalled.” She cited climate change, conflict, and economic instability as major threats to malaria control efforts, calling on all stakeholders to “reinvest in proven interventions, reimagine strategies, and reignite global and local commitment.” According to her, “Ending malaria is not just a health goal; it’s an investment in a safer, more prosperous future for all.”

The event concluded with a renewed call for inter-sectoral collaboration, improved testing culture, and sustained investment in public health infrastructure. With momentum building and key data pointing in the right direction, Lagos is closer than ever to becoming Nigeria’s first malaria-free state.

Sanwo-Olu’s Six-Year Health Revolution: Lagos Sets Standards In Health Access, Infrastructure And Innovation

In a compelling demonstration of progress, innovation, and resilience, the Lagos State Ministry of Health took center stage on Tuesday at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing to present a six-year scorecard of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration in the health sector, unveiling transformative policies, futuristic digital strategies, and life-saving reforms shaping the future of healthcare delivery in Africa’s largest megacity.

 

Presenting the scorecard, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, described the past six years as a period of “radical transformation in the architecture, access, and resilience of Lagos’ healthcare system,” emphasizing that the progress achieved was made possible through the collaborative efforts of government officials, healthcare professionals, and development partners.

 

“Lagos is home to approximately 30 million people, with a rapid annual population growth rate of 6 to 8 percent,” said Prof. Abayomi. “This places significant demand on our health system, requiring smart, scalable, and resilient solutions.”

 

The Commissioner highlighted the dual structure of the state’s healthcare ecosystem, comprising 360 public health facilities and over 3,500 private health establishments, while stressing the regulatory challenges posed by the largely unregulated private sector. “We must bridge the public-private divide to ensure quality and equity,” he added.

 

Referencing the Lagos State Development Plan (2022–2052), Abayomi explained that the ongoing health sector reforms are strategically aligned to achieve Universal Health Coverage and position Lagos as a sub-Saharan hub for medical tourism. “We are not just treating patients; we are building a global healthcare brand,” he stated.

 

Despite having the lowest maternal mortality rate in Nigeria; 430 per 100,000 live births, Abayomi declared it still unacceptable. “We’ve declared zero tolerance for preventable maternal deaths, and our goal is to reduce this figure to 37 per 100,000 within the next two to three decades,” he affirmed.

 

While noting that currently, only 5% of Lagos residents are enrolled in health insurance. The Commissioner outlined plans to attain universal coverage within 20 years, stressing the importance of increased budgetary allocation from the current 8% towards the 15% target supported by dynamic reallocations throughout the fiscal year.

 

To counter the nationwide brain drain, Abayomi emphasized Lagos’ strategic investment in workforce development. With only 7,000 doctors serving 30 million residents which is far below the WHO benchmark of one doctor per 600 patients, he noted a shortfall of 33,000 doctors. “That’s why we are prioritizing training,” he said.

 

The Commissioner said that a major component of this strategy is the University of Medicine and Health Sciences (UMH), which will train 2,500 students annually, 40% of whom will become doctors. “Legislation is almost complete, and construction is underway at key locations including the Cardiorenal Centre in Gbagada and the Isolation Centre at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba,” he revealed.

 

Regarding infrastructure, the Commissioner detailed the government’s investments in both Greenfield and Brownfield projects to deliver facilities that are fit-for-purpose, climate-resilient, and energy-efficient. “We are building for the future with sustainable hospitals, smart centers, and adaptable facilities,” he noted.

 

“Leading this transformation is the Lagos State Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP), a comprehensive digital ecosystem designed to unify patient records, referrals, emergency services, and inter-facility communication. SHIP will eliminate the chaos of bed-hunting ambulances and end reliance on paper records,” said Abayomi.

 

The Commissioner disclosed that the SHIP is now at stage seven of its rollout with commencement of infrastructure upgrades and sensitization programs. “It will eventually incorporate private health facilities, creating a statewide patient information network. This is more than technology, it’s transformation,” he emphasized.

 

He reported that Lagos has achieved a malaria prevalence rate of 2.6%, placing it in the low-transmission category. However, he warned that malaria remains a public health threat and urged collective action to reach pre-elimination status with a prevalence rate below 1%. “We’re almost there. With strong political will, innovative infrastructure, skilled manpower, digital tools, health insurance, committed partners, and public support, malaria can become history in Lagos,” he declared.

 

The Commissioner reiterated the government’s 'Prevent, Test, Treat, Track' policy, promoting preventive strategies such as insecticide-treated nets and environmental sanitation to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. “Not every fever is malaria. Misdiagnosis costs lives. If you feel unwell, get tested at a health facility,” he warned.

 

He also provided updates on disease control initiatives, highlighting progress in HIV reduction, viral hepatitis strategies, expanded cancer screenings, and free public screenings for hypertension and diabetes. Tuberculosis remains a key concern, with over 19,000 cases, including 288 drug-resistant infections. “We treat TB as a biosecurity issue, and the First Lady is championing advocacy efforts,” he said.

 

Abayomi commended key agencies including the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS), Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board (LSTMB), and the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) for their roles in the sector’s achievements. “Regulation has improved, traditional medicine is being upgraded through training, and we’re ensuring every pint of blood is safe,” he noted.

 

In conclusion, Prof. Abayomi asserted that Lagos is not just building hospitals, it is creating a smarter, safer, and more equitable healthcare system. “This is a healthcare revolution driven by data, powered by people, and inspired by purpose. We’re not just preparing for the future; we’re creating it,” he concluded.

 

In his remarks, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration for its strategic investments and innovative policies. “Health is wealth, and today’s briefing clearly shows that the government is investing significantly in both,” he stated.

 

He applauded journalists for their responsible reportage during the ministerial briefings and urged continued professionalism. “You are proving that true journalism is alive and well in Lagos. Let’s not allow disinformation to distort the development narrative,” he urged.

 

Mr. Omotoso, who officially opened and closed the briefing, emphasized the importance of accurate reporting. “As you file your stories from today’s event, please ensure the facts and figures shared are presented correctly. The people of Lagos deserve the truth,” he said, thanking all stakeholders and the media for their participation and support.

 

Earlier, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, reaffirmed the State’s commitment to delivering quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare. She commended the various agencies for their hard work, noting, “Over the past six years, we have been relentlessly focused on improving the health sector.”

 

She emphasized the critical role of the media in sharing the sector’s successes and realities, especially during seasonal outbreaks. “We anticipate these outbreaks and prepare in advance through effective public enlightenment,” she said.

 

Dr. Ogunyemi reiterated the government’s stance against unauthorized charges in public health facilities, noting that service information and fees are being publicized to prevent exploitation.

 

Addressing the brain drain issue, she shared that many Nigerian medical professionals abroad are seeking opportunities to return. “Several have met with the Commissioner and myself, expressing interest in coming back. Our Public-Private Partnership framework is designed to accommodate them,” she added.

 

She emphasized the need for continuous engagement and feedback from the public. “We welcome all comments and suggestions. Once we hear of an issue, we act on it immediately,” she assured.

Lagos Celebrates Ilera Eko Day 2025 With Renewed Commitment to Universal Health Coverage

• First Lady Sanwo-Olu Hails Scheme’s Expansion, Urges More Support for the Vulnerable

• Over One Million Residents Enrolled as Government Unveils New Benefits for Public Servants

 

In a bold affirmation of its commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Lagos State Government on Wednesday marked the 2025 ILERA EKO Day at the Lagos Television Blue Roof Arena, Agidingbi, Ikeja. The event celebrated the progress made through the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) and called on residents, stakeholders, and corporate bodies to support the initiative to ensure that no one is left behind in accessing affordable and quality healthcare.

 

Speaking at the celebration, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, described the ILERA EKO scheme as a symbol of dignity, health equity, and peace of mind for residents. She emphasized that health insurance is a right, not a privilege, and highlighted the scheme's growth from 100,000 enrollees to over one million beneficiaries.

 

“This year’s Ilera Eko Day theme, ‘ILERA EKO: Health Coverage for All,’ captures the vision of a truly inclusive health system,” she stated. “From digital innovations to tailor-made plans, the Lagos State Government is working to ensure that access to quality healthcare becomes a lived reality.”

 

She commended the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) for pioneering innovations such as the Virtual Booths, ILERA EKO App, and telemedicine platforms that have enhanced access to care.

 

Highlighting the scheme's human impact, the First Lady pointed to the Equity Fund under EKOSHA, through which orphans, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities have been enrolled at no cost. She noted her office’s role in supporting elderly citizens through the Community Senior Citizen Initiative, calling it “a symbolic thank you” to those who laid the foundation of Lagos.

 

“As a mother and medical doctor, I understand the relief that comes from knowing your family is covered,” she said. “I encourage all Lagos residents to enroll, and urge philanthropists, market leaders, and corporate organizations to support the initiative so more people can benefit.”

 

She encouraged enrollees to share their experiences to inspire others and called on everyone to become ILERA EKO ambassadors. “A healthy Lagos is a productive Lagos, and a productive Lagos is a prosperous Lagos,” she concluded.

 

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, described ILERA EKO Day as a celebration and a call to action. “It reaffirms our commitment to building a healthier Lagos,” she said, commending the First Lady and health sector leaders for their dedication.

 

Dr. Ogunyemi noted that the LSHS Law of 2015 laid the foundation for the scheme’s successes. “Health insurance offers financial protection, reduces out-of-pocket spending, and ensures access to quality care. ILERA EKO is helping us achieve that dream, even in tough economic times,” she said.

 

She also praised the ILERA N’TIWA Cooperative for enabling flexible premium payments for informal sector workers, and urged employers to enroll their staff. “Health insurance is not a luxury; it is a right and an investment.”

 

Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, emphasized the government’s support for public servants, noting that the Governor now subsidizes 75% of their annual premium to make healthcare more accessible. “We are grateful to Mr. Governor for this visionary step,” he said.

 

He unveiled additional health benefits for public servants, including cancer treatment coverage up to ₦5 million, renal dialysis for up to 52 weeks, orthopedic surgery, fibroid removal, and prosthetics support. “These are landmark improvements in employee welfare,” he noted.

 

Agoro also announced an inter-state healthcare partnership allowing public servants living in Ogun border towns to access care in 15 approved Ogun facilities. “This shows the administration’s practical approach to healthcare access,” he said.

 

Chairman of LASHMA, Dr. Adebayo Adedewe, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to health equity and social protection. He described ILERA EKO as a movement aimed at shielding Lagosians from the financial burden of healthcare.

 

Dr. Adedewe highlighted milestones since the scheme’s inception, including over one million enrollees across the 57 LGAs and LCDAs. He attributed this to community engagement, grassroots mobilization, and strategic partnerships.

 

He noted that ILERA EKO offers a broad range of tailored plans for various population groups, including the Standard Jaara, Seniors, and School Health Plans. He also acknowledged the support of traditional and religious institutions, the Office of Civic Engagement, and the First Lady, who serves as the ILERA EKO Icon and Grand Dame of EKOSHA.

 

Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, commended the growing trust Lagosians place in the health scheme. “Our goal has always been to provide equitable, quality healthcare. ILERA EKO is proof that we’re on the right track,” she said.

 

Dr. Zamba emphasized the role of technology in healthcare delivery, citing the ILERA EKO App, Telemedicine service, and Virtual Booths as tools that are transforming access to care in both urban and underserved communities.

 

She added that LASHMA is continuously improving its plans, including the Seniors and School Health Plans, to meet the needs of different groups. “With consistent support, we can build a resilient health system that leaves no one behind,” she said.

 

The highpoint of the event was the investiture of the First Lady of Lagos State as the ILERA EKO Icon and Grand Dame of EKOSHA as well as the launching of the Ilera Eko Healthcare Provider Handbooks by the First Lady.

 

The event featured testimonials from beneficiaries, musical performances, and an interactive session on how to register and use ILERA EKO digital tools. Hundreds of enrollees attended, with many praising the government for bringing healthcare closer to the people.

 

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.

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