LAGOS MEDICAL INFRASTRUCTURE TRANSFORMATION: NEW MASSEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL, OJO, SOMOLU GHs, OTHERS PROMISE IMPROVED HEALTHCARE ACCESSIBILITY

…As Officials from Ministries of Health and Works Conduct Comprehensive Project Inspections

Lagos State Government is on a mission to overhaul healthcare services with ambitious infrastructural projects aimed at strengthening the capacity and quality of medical facilities across the state.

During a recent project inspection, key figures including the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, expressed satisfaction at the progress of various medical infrastructure initiatives. These projects include the 150-bed Massey Street Specialist Children’s Hospital, the Multi-Level Car Park, Somolu General Hospital, LASUTH Resident Quarters, and Ojo General Hospital. They emphasized that these developments mark a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare advancement agenda.

Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, highlighted the transformative impact of the Massey Street Specialist Children’s Hospital, stating that it will redefine pediatric care not only in Lagos but also in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. With its sustainable engineering principles and exclusive focus on pediatric care, the hospital, boasting 150 beds and a multi-level car park accommodating over 300 vehicles, is poised to become a beacon of excellence in pediatric healthcare.

“With sustainable engineering principles integrated into its design, the hospital boasts a capacity of 150 beds and a multi-level car park accommodating over 300 vehicles. Positioned as a referral centre for complex pediatric cases, the hospital is set to become a beacon of excellence in pediatric healthcare within Nigeria.” He said.

Prof. Abayomi also emphasized the importance of revamping Somolu General Hospital to meet the growing population’s healthcare needs. The expansion plans, including a 120-bed facility with specialized services and accommodation for medical personnel, reflect the government’s commitment to providing accessible and quality healthcare services to all residents.

In his words: “Recognizing the increasing demand for healthcare services, particularly in densely populated areas, the Lagos State Government is revitalizing Somolu General Hospital. The expansion project, set to transform the hospital into a modern healthcare hub, includes plans for a 120-bed facility equipped with specialized services and accommodation for medical personnel. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to providing accessible and quality healthcare services to all residents.”

Regarding the LASUTH Resident Doctors’ Quarters, the Commissioner highlighted its role in enhancing medical personnel welfare and addressing accommodation challenges faced by resident doctors. The 10-story building will provide comfortable living spaces for doctors undergoing specialized training, contributing to the retention of skilled healthcare professionals.

“In a bid to address the accommodation challenges faced by medical personnel, especially resident doctors, the government is constructing residential quarters adjacent to the House Officers quarters in the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). The 10-story building will provide comfortable living spaces for doctors undergoing specialized training, thereby enhancing their welfare and contributing to the retention of skilled healthcare professionals.” He said.

Furthermore, Prof. Abayomi underscored the significance of Ojo General Hospital, which, despite facing technical challenges, is progressing steadily to become a cornerstone in healthcare delivery for surrounding communities. Upon completion, the hospital’s 288-bed capacity and extensive staff accommodation will ensure comprehensive healthcare services for residents in the region.

Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, commended the dedication of contractors and consultants involved in these transformative projects. He emphasized the government’s commitment to delivering sustainable and resilient healthcare infrastructure, with a focus on adherence to stringent standards and specifications.

Engr. Olayinka highlighted the importance of effective governance and inter-agency cooperation, particularly evident in initiatives like the Somolu General Hospital project. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to delivering infrastructure of the highest standards through regular inspections and quality assurance measures.

In conclusion, the State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritizing sustainability and efficiency in ongoing medical infrastructure projects, ultimately aiming to revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve the well-being of its citizens.

Signed

Tunbosun Ogunbanwo
Director, Public Affairs
28th April, 2024