The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to ensuring safe and quality healthcare for children as it joined the global community to mark the 2025 World Patient Safety Day (WPSD).
The event, organised by the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), was held on Wednesday at NECA House, Alausa, Ikeja, with the theme: “Safe Care for Every Newborn and Every Child.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Olukemi Ogunyemi, said patient safety begins from pregnancy and continues through childbirth and beyond. She urged health workers, parents, and community leaders to act as ambassadors of safety, stressing that “every child has the right to safe and quality care.” She added that the state remains committed, under the THEMES Plus Agenda, to providing affordable healthcare for all.
In his goodwill message, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Lawal Aina Musibau, reaffirmed legislative support for stronger laws and oversight in the health sector. He described health workers as “the foundation of public trust” and urged stakeholders to make patient safety a daily practice.
On her part, the Executive Secretary of HEFAMAA, Dr. Abiola Idowu emphasised that children are not “little adults” and must be handled with special attention. She cautioned against unsafe practices such as misdiagnoses and delays in care, urging parents to prioritise antenatal care and vaccinations.
Also speaking, the Chairman of HEFAMAA, Dr. Yemisi Solanke described children as “totally dependent and highly vulnerable.” She called for stronger protection against neglect, abuse, and unsafe practices both within hospitals and in homes.
The celebration brought together health professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders to renew their commitment to child safety and improved healthcare delivery in Lagos State.
