HEFAMAA has urged Lagos residents to report illegal and substandard health facilities to help ensure access to safe, quality healthcare across the state

HEFAMAA has called on Lagos residents to be more vigilant and report illegal or substandard health facilities operating within their communities.

Also read: Kano Hypertension Programme Expands to 208 Clinics

Speaking at a sensitisation and town hall meeting in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, Dr Olorunfemi Olonire, Director of Research and Statistics at the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, said the government is intensifying efforts to ensure that every Lagosian enjoys safe and quality healthcare.

“We are here to remind our people that healthcare regulation is not the responsibility of government alone. Community participation is vital.

If you see a clinic, maternity home or health centre operating under unsafe conditions, don’t keep quiet — report it to HEFAMAA,” Olonire said.

He explained that the agency has been educating residents on how to identify duly registered medical facilities and verify their operational licences, adding that public vigilance is essential in combating quackery.

“Our duty is to ensure that all health facilities in Lagos meet the minimum standards of safety and quality,” he said. “But we also rely on the vigilance of the public. The community must serve as our eyes and ears.”

Olonire revealed that feedback from the Amuwo Odofin community indicated difficulties in accessing safe and affordable healthcare, especially in the riverine areas of the state.

“A very critical concern was raised about the challenges faced by residents in riverine communities,” he said. “We have taken note of this and will communicate it to our Permanent Secretary, who will brief the Honourable Commissioner for Health.

We believe the matter will reach the Governor for appropriate intervention.”

He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to bridging healthcare disparities and ensuring that no community is left behind.

“The Sanwo-Olu administration is determined to make quality healthcare accessible to every Lagosian — whether on the mainland, the island or the riverine belt.

We are working closely with the Ministry of Health and local governments to make this a reality,” he added.

Also read: Lagos HEFAMAA Warns Against Illegal Health Facilities

The sensitisation exercise is part of HEFAMAA’s wider campaign to promote public awareness, curb medical malpractice, and build citizens’ confidence in the state’s healthcare system.