In a renewed effort to enhance healthcare access and outcomes, the Lagos State government, in partnership with EngenderHealth has launched a new advocacy project aimed at strengthening primary healthcare (PHC) and improving maternal, newborn, child, adolescent health and nutrition (RMNCAH+N) across the state.

The initiative, titled “Advocacy Solutions to Improve PHC and RMNCAH Delivery and Health Outcomes,” was unveiled at a stakeholders’ event held in Ikeja. The project is funded by the Gates Foundation and co-implemented by the State’s Ministry of Health and key partners in the health sector.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, described the initiative as a timely and strategic move to consolidate existing healthcare gains.

She emphasised that the project aligns with the development agenda of the current administration and underlined the importance of building upon existing systems to achieve greater impact.

Ogunyemi said the intervention will reinforce already existing programmes through innovative, equity-driven, and community-focused advocacy tools. “This is not just a ceremonial launch; it is a call to action.”

The Country Director of Engender Health, Dr Kabiru Atta, stated that the initiative will span three and a half years, and focus on policy advocacy, gender-responsive reforms, and accountability measures.

According to him, the project would support the government in prioritising PHC and RMNCAH+N issues, improving health financing, and strengthening policy frameworks for better service delivery.

Atta noted that the project would also track indicators such as government spending on health, healthcare workforce capacity, and policy accountability to measure progress.

He added that improving nutrition, especially in the critical first 1,000 days of a child’s life, would remain a core priority. “From day one, we are co-creating with the government and stakeholders to ensure state ownership and long-term continuity beyond 2028.”

Representative of the Gates Foundation and State Consultant, Mr Olakunle Daramola, lauded the state government for its commitment to health reform. He pointed out that Lagos State was working with over 20 Gates-funded partner programmes and highlighted the state’s leadership role in driving healthcare innovation and equity in Nigeria.

He also reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting initiatives that emphasise access, equity, and accountability in healthcare systems.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Ibrahim Mustafa, said Lagos has performed better than other states in maternal and child health indices, there was still a significant journey ahead.

He reiterated the importance of sustaining political will and multi-sectoral partnerships in achieving the project’s goals.