From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Federal Government, through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has opened a state-of-the-art 20-bed Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Oreta Community, Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Ikorodu, Lagos State, marking a significant advancement in the state’s healthcare system.
In a statement issued by SA Media, OSSAP-SDGs, Desmond Utomwen, the state-of-the-art facility, commissioned by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, is fully equipped with essential amenities, including a labour room, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), maternity and behavioural health rooms, patient wards, and a consultant’s office. These provisions aim to address the critical healthcare needs of the local population, with a particular focus on maternal and child health.
At the commissioning, Orelope-Adefulire expressed happiness at the completion of the project and highlighted its transformative potential for the community.
“This healthcare centre is more than a project; it is a demonstration of our dedication to achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 3, which prioritises good health and well-being. It stands as a testament to our commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare to every Nigerian, starting at the grassroots level,” she stated.
She announced plans for future enhancements, including the establishment of units for immunisation, antenatal, gynaecology, and postnatal care. Additional infrastructure such as doctors’ quarters and upgraded security measures, including a fenced perimeter with barbed wire, were also outlined.
“We are not just building for today but planning for the future. This facility is a legacy of hope and health for Oreta and its surrounding communities,” Orelope-Adefulire added.
In her concluding remarks, Princess Orelope-Adefulire called on the community to collectively ensure the sustainability of the facility.
“This centre belongs to all of us. Let us protect it, use it wisely, and ensure it serves generations to come,” she said.
The Executive Chairman of Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA, Builder Olusesan Daini, commended the federal government and Princess Orelope-Adefulire for their impactful intervention.
“This healthcare centre is a beacon of hope for over 51 Community Development Associations and countless families in Oreta and its environs. It is a game-changer for healthcare delivery in this region,” he remarked.
Daini further acknowledged the unwavering support of the SSAP-SDGs and pledged the community’s commitment to maintaining the facility.
The event was graced by His Royal Majesty Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, who praised the initiative as a milestone in the community’s development.
“This project underscores the importance of collaboration between government and community leaders in meeting the healthcare needs of our people. It is a significant achievement for Igbogbo,” the monarch stated.
Aro Abiodun, Member of Lagos State House of Assembly representing Ikorodu Constituency II, lauded the project, emphasising its potential to transform lives.
“This facility represents progress and a brighter future. It shows what can be achieved when leaders prioritise the well-being of the people,” he said.
Other dignitaries, including Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, Hon. Wasiu Agoro, and Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba, also expressed their gratitude and called for sustained development in the region.
The project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, focusing on improving healthcare accessibility and achieving universal health coverage.