Thousands of residents of Ikorodu Local Government will for the next three days have access to free eye screening and free eye-glasses distribution as well as free health checks, courtesy of the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government.
The 3-day free day eye screening and free eye-glasses distribution exercise dubbed, “Jigi Bola”, which was in continuation of an annual health outreach, launched during the administration of the President as Governor of Lagos State, between 1999-2007.
The Ikorodu Local Government public health initiative was a partnership between the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, Health District II and CHAI, reinforcing the spirit of synergy and shared responsibility for community healthcare.
Adeshina described the exercise as ‘an enduring legacy of people-centred governance and a reflection of our administration’s unwavering commitment to accessible and inclusive healthcare for all’
‘Today, we gather not just for the commencement of another round of free eye screening and distribution of reading glasses, but to reaffirm our belief that every citizen, irrespective of age, status, or background,deserves the right to quality healthcare. We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, Health District II, and CHAI in advancing this noble cause right here in Ikorodu’, he added.
He explained that the exercise would feature free eye screening, distribution of reading glasses, blood pressure checks, and, notably, enrolment into the Ilera Eko health insurance scheme,a vital step towards achieving universal health coverage for the people at the grassroots.
‘Let me emphasize that poor vision, if not detected and managed early, can diminish the quality of life. Many of our elderly citizens suffer silently due to lack of access to affordable eye care. Likewise, undiagnosed hypertension continues to pose a silent threat to lives. Therefore, this outreach serves both as a preventive measure and a lifeline for early intervention’, Adeshina explained further.
‘Ikorodu is on a journey of progress,one that includes infrastructural development, economic empowerment, and crucially, the health and wellbeing of our people. As your Chairman, I remain committed to ensuring that no one is left behind’, he concluded.
Day-1 of the 3-day exercise kicked off at the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, where hundreds of beneficiaries were attended to.
Dr. Adedayo Lydia, representing the Ministry of Health (MHO) of Ikorodu Local Government in her address to the attendees stated that the purpose of the event was to provide eye care services to individuals who cannot afford treatment, emphasizing that “the eyes are the light of the body”.
Pharmacist Adeola Adeniyi, representing the Permanent Secretary (PS) of Lagos State Health District II, Dr. Ibidunni Oludayo Lajide, extended the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government and the community leaders, for their collaboration in making the event possible.
The PS, through Pharmacist Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of protecting against eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma. He emphasized that these conditions often go undiagnosed due to limited access to eye care services, primarily because of financial constraints.
Similarly, Mrs. Hadiza from the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) office explained that Ilera Eko is a healthcare program with two components: one that requires payment and another that offers free services to vulnerable populations.
She noted that the government recognizes not everyone can afford healthcare, which is why they’re providing assistance to those in need.
She thanked Hon. Adesina for facilitating the free medical services residents of Ikorodu at no cost, enabling residents to know their health status and promoting regular medical check-ups.
Mrs. Yetunde Iyiola, a beneficiary of the free eye care program, expressed her gratitude to Hon. Wasiu Adedeji Adesina, the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government. She disclosed that her child had been experiencing eyesight issues for five years, and despite visiting various places, they couldn’t find a solution.
Mrs. Raji Kudirat, another beneficiary of the free medical program, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the local government chairman and partners involved in the initiative.
Mrs. Raji noted that some medical services typically require payment, with costs ranging from N250 to N350. However, she appreciated that the current program offers these services for free.
She thanked the government, partners, and the king for opening his place for the program, making it possible for residents to access these services without financial burden.
