The Lagos State Government (LASG) has collaborated with First Bank of Nigeria in providing a Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) at Ijeododo Community in Lagos State.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu, explained at the groundbreaking ceremony that PHC would improve the standard of living of the residents of Ijeododo in Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, explained that the ‘One Community At A Time (OCAAT) ‘ initiative was an integrated, inter-sectoral and community-based programme that would achieve sustainable improvements in the lives of people living in underserved communities across Lagos State.
According to him,the initiative was the brainchild of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs Folashade Jaji, which was approved by the State Executive Council on January 18, 2020.
He said that in spite of the deficiency, the state had risen to the challenge of fighting COVID-19, reducing the impact of the disease on the citizens and keeping the economy open.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the import of providing functional PHCs to fight COVID-19 and other diseases, especially, in the underserved communities.
He added that the state will transform its health infrastructure through the use of quality and medically suitable building materials to ensure the sustainability of the structures.
He commended First Bank for supporting his administration’s quest in building resilient healthcare in the state and increasing residents’ access to quality healthcare.
Speaking ,Dr Adesola Adeduntan, the Managing Director, First Bank, explained that supporting Government through the building of the PHC was part of the bank’s resolve to spread kindness across various communities.
He said that the bank had advocated this through its philanthropic Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Week, an initiative held yearly to promote acts of kindness.
According to him, the initiative tagged ‘SPARK’ an acronym for: Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness, gives expression to the bank’s commitment to improving the health and welfare of members of various communities.
He maintained the bank’s commitment to continue to support the government in its developmental projects, adding that First Bank through CACOVID assisted the government in its fight against COVID-19.
He advised residents of Ijeododo community to take ownership of the PHC by maintaining it, while stating the bank’s commitment to supporting the community through the process.
Chief Jelili Ododo, the leader of Ijeododo Community in his response, commended the state government and First Bank for the decision to build the PHC in his community.
“Our pregnant women used to give birth inside cars on their way to the nearest General Hospital at Igando.
“This PHC will bring relief to my people. I plead with the government to start the project on time and also ensure its early completion,” he said.
