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Speaker Obasa advocates better funding for Nigeria’s health sector

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

Sponsored by: H&H


The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has mentioned poor funding of the health sector in Nigeria as a hindrance to the country’s attainment of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) target of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Dr. Obasa spoke on Thursday at a 2-day health programme organised by the House in conjunction with the Legislative Advocacy Initiative For Sustainable Development (LISDEL) aimed at enhancing the capacities of legislators and key stakeholders in the health sector of Lagos state as part of moves to help Nigeria meet the universal health coverage.


Represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Wasiu Eshilokun-Sanni, Obasa said Nigeria is embattled with various challenges in the health sector, but that poor funding has become a major issue.


“To my mind, the biggest challenge facing the health sector in Nigeria is lack of adequate financing.

This is because none of the other problems is too obscure to identify or complicated to solve.


“To solve the problems of lack of adequate financing and thereby invest in the health sector and achieve the Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria, you, the stakeholders have come up with laudable innovative ideas like the Community-based Health Intervention/Insurance.


“This initiative is largely addressing the issue of ‘out-of-pocket payments’ and would alleviate the struggles of our people in the rural areas.


“On this note, I salute the determination of the stakeholders in this sector for your efforts day and night to tackle these rather evasive but tormenting problems,” the Speaker’s representative said.


In his keynote address, the chairman of the committee on health of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Akeem Olusola Sokunle, noted that the programme would help address the basics of ensuring universal health coverage policies and objectives.


He commended LISDEL for helping legislators, clerks of various Houses of Assembly and others with capacity building in relation to health financing.


“It is targeted at strengthening the state’s health sector and deepening legislators’ understanding of health financing, universal health coverage and public health coverage objectives,” Sokunle said about the programme.


He promised more partnerships with stakeholders to make the health sector of Lagos better.


Speaking concerning the programme, the chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon. David Setonji, noted that even though Lagos still had a lot to grapple with, the state is doing well and taking the right steps to meet the WHO targets.

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Health

Rainy Season: LAWMA Completes Rehabilitation of Olusosun Dumpsite

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…calls for responsible waste disposal

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

As the rains approach, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has completed the rehabilitation of Olusosun dumpsite, to ensure smooth waste disposal operations across the state.

Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who made this known in a statement on Thursday, said the maintenance effort was aimed at improving operational efficiency in anticipation of the rainy season.

He said, “Our primary objective in rehabilitating Olusosun dumpsite is to ensure that waste disposal trucks can navigate through the dumpsite seamlessly, even in adverse weather conditions, especially during heavy rainfall when logistical challenges tend to arise”.

Dr. Gbadegesin stated that, in addition to the recently completed maintenance efforts, LAWMA was focused on enhancing operational efficiency to improve turnaround times for waste disposal trucks, adding that the rehabilitation would significantly reduce queue times, translating to faster and more effective waste collection services.

“Our commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond operational enhancements. We urge residents to join us in prioritising responsible waste disposal practices to safeguard our environment”, he stressed.

The LAWMA boss further highlighted the importance of proper waste disposal, urging residents to avoid dumping waste in drains, especially during the rainy season, known for disrupting the drainage system and posing serious environmental risks to lives and properties.

“We encourage residents to patronise accredited Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators for their waste disposal needs. By supporting licensed operators, individuals contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for all”, he reiterated.

The Managing Director emphasised the importance of residents familiarising themselves with their PSPs, who play a vital role in waste management at the local level, adding that, by understanding and engaging with their designated PSP operators, residents could ensure efficient and effective waste disposal services in their communities.

“We are committed to facilitating this process by publishing detailed PSP contacts for all areas in the state. This initiative aims to empower residents to take ownership of waste management practices in their neighborhoods, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for all”, he assured.

For more information about LAWMA’s initiatives and how to support efforts to maintain a clean environment, please visit www.lawma.gov.ng or call our toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617.

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Entertainment

Singer, Okiki Bright Speaks on “Ambition” Album, Industry Struggles in New Explosive Interview

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

on the 6th of November, 2023, Nigerian Fuji musician Okiki Bright released his much-anticipated album, “Ambition.” Distributed and marketed by Role Model Entertainment, this album marks a significant milestone in Okiki Bright’s career, and it’s already making waves in the music industry. Today, the artist took to the airwaves at Fresh FM in Ibadan for an exclusive interview hosted by Alhaji Saheed Babatunde, where he delved into the various aspects of the album and shared insights on the challenges within the music industry.

“Ambition” on All Streaming Platforms
Before diving into the interview details, it’s worth noting that “Ambition” is now available on all major streaming platforms. Listeners can enjoy the fusion of indigenous Fuji rhythms with contemporary melodies that Okiki Bright brings to life through this album. The music promises to be a captivating auditory experience, staying true to the didactic traditions of the genre while embracing innovation.

Insights from the Interview
During the interview at Fresh FM, Okiki Bright opened up about his journey, the inspiration behind “Ambition,” and the struggles he’s faced in the music industry. He discussed how his music is a bridge between tradition and modernity, much like his mentor, Chief Adewale Ayuba. The artist emphasized the importance of cultural narratives and morals in his compositions and how they are presented on danceable modern rhythms, creating not just music but a cultural experience for his audience.

The interview shed light on the enduring power of mentorship in the music industry and the coexistence of diverse musical styles, carrying on the torch lit by legends like Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. Okiki Bright’s journey and his latest album exemplify the fusion of tradition and ambition within the rich tapestry of Nigerian music.

As “Ambition” continues to gain traction on streaming platforms, music enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the cultural and musical experience that Okiki Bright brings to life. The interview at Fresh FM not only provided insights into the album but also underscored the artist’s dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Fuji music while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates on Okiki Bright’s musical journey and the ongoing success of “Ambition,” as it leaves an indelible mark on the Nigerian music scene.

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Health

LAWMA Organises Medical Checks For Sweepers

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has organised a free medical screening, for over 1000 sanitation workers (street sweepers) August24news.com has learnt.

The event took place at the Authority’s headquarters, Ijora Olopa. Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Managing Director of LAWMA, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, noted that the exercise was a testament to the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, to prioritise the wellness of LAWMA sweepers.

He said, “Your well-being is our priority. Whatever happens to your health, will affect us in one way or the other. Therefore, we don’t want
any ill-health to befall you.

Today, your blood pressure, sugar level, urine and eye and hepatitis will be checked for proper diagnosis.

The aim of this is to manage the health of our workers and detect early health issues.

Our sweepers are our heroes, we need to take good care of them. We have over 16,000 of them who keep Lagos clean everyday. Our aim is to ensure we capture all of them in this screening exercise and there will be follow ps.

Some will be administered for consultation, some will be for referral, some will be given medications. All of these is to ensure their health is properly managed.

We appreciate the Governor for his
consistent support”.

The Medical Director of LAWMA, Dr. (Mrs.) Modupe Okoh, noted that the medical screening exercise was a demonstration of the state’s commitment to the welfare of LAWMA’s workforce, adding that early detection of
diseases would go a long way in helping to manage the health of sweepers who work tirelessly.

One of the beneficiaries, Nafisat Rahman, appreciated the state government for the medical checks.  In her words: “We do spend a lot on hospital bills, but with this kind of initiative, it will reduce it and we will be more aware of our health status. I want them to continue with this kind of exercise”, she said.

Another beneficiary, Godwin Imeh, said the medical screening exercise was a nice initiative. He encouraged the Authority to continue to
prioritise the welfare of sweepers.

In attendance at the event were members of LAWMA’s management staff.

The medical outreach for LAWMA’s sanitation workers is a continuous exercise, with sweepers in other districts in the state set to benefit from the health screening.

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