By Mohammed Adekola
Epe Local Government Chairman, Princess Surah Animashaun, launched an extensive tuberculosis (TB) awareness and screening campaign to combat the disease in the community.
The proactive drive follows the Chairman’s recent designation as an official Ambassador for tuberculosis awareness by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
“We’re bringing health services right to the people,” said Animashaun, during her address in the Epe Local Government Secretariat. “Through this initiative, our community members now have access to free health screening and essential treatments. This effort is about protecting our next generation. If we don’t care for our children and our community, what will become of Epe?”
The campaign, which has already identified few TB cases among children, also offers broader health screenings under the ‘Know Your Number’ program. Residents are checked for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, with free two-week treatments available for those who test with elevated levels.
Dr. Adeleke Awolese Emmanuel, the Medical Officer of Health for Epe, shared insights on the initiative’s broader reach: “Over the past three weeks, we’ve screened over 500 people. With the Chairman’s support, we’re empowering residents to not only know their status but also access essential treatment for free. This campaign is crucial because early detection saves lives.”
Residents expressed their gratitude for the initiative, with many seeing it as a lifeline for the community. Folake Balogun, a program participant, voiced her appreciation, saying, “We are grateful to our Chairman for this program. It’s comforting to know that someone cares enough to provide these check-ups and medication.”
