The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Lagos State in enhancing healthcare services.
This pledge was made during a visit by WHO Country Representative Dr. Walter Mulombo to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In a statement on the WHO website, Dr. Mulombo praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to healthcare reform, first highlighted during a meeting at Chatham House in London.
This commitment has strengthened the partnership between Lagos State and WHO.
Dr. Mulombo assured the governor of WHO’s full support, stating, “With Mr. Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, WHO is ready to partner with the Lagos State Government to build a skilled health workforce and improve health outcomes in Lagos.”
He commended Lagos for leading the Health Insurance Scheme, surpassing its enrollment target, and contributing over 10% of Nigeria’s GDP
. He also noted the state’s success in attracting medical practitioners from the diaspora, similar to India’s medical tourism model.
Dr. Mulombo announced WHO’s plans to pilot a global framework for strengthening healthcare emergencies in urban areas in Lagos.
He emphasized the urgent need to address the ongoing cholera outbreak and integrate health and environmental strategies for sustainable development.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed strong support for WHO’s framework, stating, “We appreciate WHO’s partnership in our fight against cholera and other health challenges.
Our administration is committed to improving health infrastructure, promoting sanitation, and ensuring access to clean water.”
This collaboration between WHO and Lagos State represents a significant step forward in advancing health emergency preparedness and capacity building in urban settings.
