State Assembly pushes for new medical university
Lagos State government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV as part of its broader strategy to achieve an HIV-free generation.
Speaking at a two-day sensitisation programme organised for Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), the Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, underscored the pivotal role of TBAs in protecting the health of mothers and newborns across the state.
In a statement, yesterday, the sensitisation session, which was aimed at equipping TBAs with practical skills to apply safe delivery practices that reduce the risk of HIV transmission during their daily practices, was held at the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
Animashaun highlighted the crucial role TBAs play in grassroots healthcare delivery. She stressed that TBAs, being trusted community health providers, must adopt safe practices and promote awareness on the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, emphasising the critical role TBAs play in maternal and child healthcare, as pregnant women tend to seek care and guidance from TBAs before going to a hospital.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Assembly is pushing for a new medical and health sciences university in the state to address the severe shortage of healthcare professionals and curb medical tourism.
During the plenary session, members of the House debated the potential impact of this proposal.
The motion, which seeks to establish a dedicated institution for medicine and health sciences, was supported by several members.
The member representing Lagos Mainland Constituency I, and the Chairman, House Committee on Tertiary Institutions, Ajani Owolabi, argued that the new university would significantly increase the number of students admitted into medical fields, a crucial step toward boosting the nation’s healthcare workforce.
Echoing this sentiment, Musbau Lawal stated that the establishment of the university is crucial today, as it would help curb medical tourism and prevent doctors and nurses from leaving the country for greener pastures.
Another member, Nureni Akinsanya, also highlighted the economic benefits of the proposal, noting that it would “provide more medical personnel and create more job opportunities for residents.
Additionally, Femi Saheed emphasised the urgency of the situation, citing alarming statistics that show 7,855 doctors are available to treat over 25 million Lagosians.
He emphasised that the new institution would provide more health practitioners, reduce government spending, and accommodate more medical students.
