Lagos Receives Accident and Emergency Centre (CAEC) in Epe

In a landmark Public-Private Partnership milestone, the Lagos State Government yesterday took delivery of the newly constructed Custodian Accident and Emergency Centre (CAEC) in Epe, built and donated by Custodian Investment Plc through its Custodian Social Responsibility Foundation (CSRF). The edifice was officially handed over to the government at a colourful ceremony held within the premises of the Federal Medical Centre, Epe.

 

The event, which drew high-ranking government officials, traditional leaders, healthcare professionals and corporate executives, marked a major boost to healthcare infrastructure in Lagos’ rapidly developing Epe division. The emergency facility, described as a “Level IV Trauma Centre,” is designed to provide immediate triage and stabilization services in the event of accidents and other emergencies, especially critical in hard-to-reach areas on the outskirts of Lagos metropolis.

 

Speaking during the handover, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, expressed profound gratitude to Custodian Investment Plc and described the project as “a bold step forward in expanding access to urgent and life-saving medical services.” He noted that the facility represents what is possible when corporate vision aligns with government priorities and community needs.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the Ministry of Health for its collaboration in delivering what he called a “world-class facility,” and added that Epe’s strategic selection as the project’s location reflects government’s commitment to equitable healthcare distribution. “It goes to show that Epe is always on our mind,” he declared. “Every division in Lagos will get its due, but today is Epe’s turn.”

 

Describing the new centre as a critical link in the healthcare delivery chain, the Governor emphasized its role in stabilizing patients during the crucial first 24 to 48 hours after an incident. “We cannot predict when an accident will happen,” he said, “but with this centre in place, lives will be saved faster, and long-term care plans will be better structured.”

 

He also urged residents to take ownership of the facility, stressing the need for collective protection, responsible use, and support for medical personnel. “Let this centre remain a beacon of hope that outlives generations,” the Governor said.

 

Sanwo-Olu further used the occasion to appeal to other corporate organisations to emulate Custodian’s commitment to community development. “Government cannot do it alone. But we are always open to genuine partnership. We promise that we won’t waste your time or resources,” he pledged.

 

Earlier in his remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, lauded the professionalism and collaborative spirit with which Custodian approached the project. “You didn’t impose your vision on us. You asked what we needed, and you listened. That’s how real partnerships should work,” he stated.

 

Highlighting the shared history with members of Custodian’s leadership team from his days at the International School Ibadan, Abayomi said the personal and professional networks helped energize the execution. “This building is not just concrete and glass. It’s a story of shared values and genuine social impact,” he added.

 

He also explained that the architectural design incorporated low carbon and energy-efficient elements, reflecting Lagos’ climate-resilient health infrastructure strategy. “What you see here is a masterpiece. It is not just a health centre, it is a future-facing facility,” he enthused.

 

Prof. Akin Abayomi, emphasized the life-saving role of trauma centres, describing them as facilities that "bring people back from the clutches of death." He noted that such centres must be fully equipped and ready to respond instantly to severe incidents like road traffic accidents.

 

The Commissioner described the facility as fully aligned with Lagos’ Emergency Management Strategy and said it would become an integral part of the State’s expanding network of pre-hospital and trauma care units. “We’re already integrating it into our emergency response architecture,” he assured.

 

Highlighting the State’s strategic policy to establish trauma centres along major entry points into Lagos, Prof. Abayomi said the new facility marks a significant step in achieving that vision. He also referenced the launch of the Lagos Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP), which will help emergency responders locate available centres and equipment in real time. In addition, he revealed that under the Lagos State Health Insurance scheme, funds are being earmarked to cover emergency care for patients in the critical first 24 to 48 hours without requiring upfront payment further demonstrating the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to equitable, accessible healthcare.

 

The Group Managing Director of Custodian Investment Plc, Mr. Wole Oshin, recounted the Foundation’s earlier unsuccessful attempt to establish a trauma centre along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, and how that setback led to a new opportunity when he reconnected with his senior and Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi.

 

He explained that their conversation opened doors to align the initiative with the State’s vision for a network of trauma and emergency centres. “But after deep reflection and discussions with the government, we agreed that Epe would benefit more from such a facility,” he said. He noted that the eventual siting of the CAEC within a hospital environment in Epe was strategically chosen for ease of patient access and swift medical intervention.

 

Highlighting the foundation’s vision and motivation behind the impactful health intervention, Oshin noted that while Custodian Insurance had long been involved in vehicle insurance and repairs, the organization felt compelled to extend its impact by focusing on saving human lives, especially in emergency situations.

 

The Custodian GMD expressed appreciation to all stakeholders, including government officials, architects, and contractors who made the project a success. He praised the quick endorsement from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and lauded the collaboration as a model quasi-public-private partnership (PPP) capable of transforming health infrastructure in Lagos State. Mr. Oshin concluded by expressing hope for more partnerships with the Lagos State Government in future developmental projects.

 

In her remarks, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, expressed profound gratitude and pride at the commissioning and handover of the Custodian Accident and Emergency Centre in Epe. She described the event as the culmination of a shared vision between the Lagos State Government and Custodian Investment Plc to address emergency care gaps in the Epe axis and beyond, with a facility designed to save lives and improve critical care delivery.

 

Dr. Ogunyemi noted that the groundbreaking for the state-of-the-art Level IV Trauma Centre took place in May 2023, and praised the execution and quality of the completed structure. She emphasized that the Centre was more than just a building but a beacon of compassionate governance, equipped with modern zones for triage and emergency care, backed by sustainable features such as solar power and eco-friendly designs. She commended the strategic design tailored for rapid treatment within the crucial ‘golden hour’ of trauma cases.

 

Aligning the facility with the Health and Environment pillar of the State's THEMES+ agenda, Dr. Ogunyemi reiterated Lagos State’s commitment to effective staffing, proper maintenance, and high-quality service delivery at the Centre. She thanked Custodian Investment Plc for their unwavering commitment to public welfare and concluded with a call to continued collaboration in building a healthier, safer, and more inclusive Lagos.

 

Also speaking at the event, the CEO of the Custodian Social Responsibility Foundation (CSRF), Mrs. Olubunmi Aderemi, reflected on the Foundation’s origins in vehicle insurance and the evolution of its social mission towards saving lives, moving from repairing vehicles to rescuing accident victims through critical health interventions.

 

She highlighted the CSRF’s longstanding focus on Community Development, Education, and Health, with prior successes including an e-library and computer center for public schools in Lagos. She however noted that the trauma centre project marks their largest and most impactful intervention yet.

 

Entirely funded through internal resources, she said the 20-bed Level IV trauma facility is designed to serve not just the local community but also commuters on the Sagamu-Benin expressway, where infrastructure development is rapidly expanding.

 

Mrs. Aderemi expressed deep appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his swift approval and to Prof. Akin Abayomi, Commissioner for Health, for his unwavering support. She reaffirmed CSRF’s commitment to continued partnerships and called on the Ministry of Health to ensure the centre operates effectively, ultimately saving lives and strengthening the health system of Lagos 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 Congratulates Residents on Easter Celebration, Urges Healthy Living and Safe Practices.

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has extended warm Easter greetings to all residents of the state.

In a statement released yesterday by the agency’s Public Affairs Unit, the Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, congratulated residents on the occasion of Easter and emphasized the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles and safe practices to prevent the spread of HIV during and after the festive period. She noted that Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is a season that symbolizes renewal, hope, and love — values that should also inspire how individuals care for their health and that of others.

Dr Animashaun urged Lagosians to celebrate responsibly by adhering to preventive health measures, such as practicing safe sex, undergoing regular health screenings, and embracing moderation in lifestyle choices. She noted that healthy habits are vital for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

“As we celebrate Easter — a season of renewal and hope — I extend heartfelt congratulations to all residents of Lagos State. I encourage everyone to prioritize healthy living and adopt safe practices to help curb the spread of HIV. Let us uphold the values of love, care, and personal responsibility, and commit to safeguarding not only our health but also the well-being of those around us,” she said.

Dr Animashaun also encouraged residents to show love and support to people living with or affected by HIV, not just during the festive periods but at all times. She reiterated that HIV is not merely a medical condition but a societal issue that requires collective compassion, understanding, and action.

She stressed that stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV can result in numerous negative consequences, including delayed access to medical treatment, increased risk of transmission, and heightened mental health challenges.

“Discrimination has long stood as a barrier to effective HIV response. It discourages individuals from seeking the medical care they need and disclosing their HIV status to loved ones, healthcare providers, and their communities,” she added.

The CEO further reminded residents of the Lagos State Government’s ongoing efforts to promote health initiatives and encouraged everyone to support these efforts by staying informed, getting tested, and accessing appropriate healthcare services. She reaffirmed that HIV testing and counselling services remain free at all designated healthcare facilities across the state, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly in the prevention, control, and management of HIV.

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