The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) is collaborating with the Lagos Primary Health Care Board (LPHCB) to prepare for quicker emergency response during heavy rainfall expected in September and October.
The LASEMA Director-General, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, made the disclosure when some LASEMA officials visited the LSHCB office in Yaba, Lagos, on Tuesday.
Oke-Osanyintolu who was represented by the LASEMA Director of Operations, Mr. Olatunde Akinsanya, said that the collaboration was necessary due to the huge healthcare resources of the LPHCB.
He said that LASEMA intended to tap into the resources during the expected downpours in September and October.
“We are here on a mission that will give Lagos State residents confidence that Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu is taking responsibility for their safety.
“LPHCB has the capacity when it comes to materials to take care of health-related cases all over the state.
“LASEMA intends to work effectively with the board so that whenever there is an incident, we can activate a response plan,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.
Responding, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos Primary Health Care Board,
Dr. Oluwagbemiga Aina said that the Sanwo-Olu administration gave health and environment priority attention.
He said the COVID-19 pandemic had made the board to develop the capacity of its staff.
He said that the board educated communities on the dangers of the pandemic.
“Can we also still use that same platform to deliver that message that will mitigate any impending disaster.
“Part of responding to a disaster is not to be reactive but initially looking into the factor, identifying areas that are vulnerable and communicating adequately.
“How can we prepare the health workforce to be prepared to take care of such emergencies if they do occur.
“We need to enlighten residents on how to clear drains such that when there is a downpour, we will have where to channel into,” Aina said.
He promised to extend communication on flood mitigation to local governments and community leaders.
From left: Olatunde Akinsanya, Director of Operations, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA); Dr. Oluwagbemiga Aina, Permanent Secretary, Lagos Primary Health Care Board
