Red Cross seeks collaboration to improve healthcare services in Ekiti

The Chairman, Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS), Ekiti branch, Dr Tunde Ajayi, has called for adequate collaboration in ensuring effective healthcare services in Ekiti State.

Ajayi made the call during an official visit to the Ekiti Ministry of Health and Human Services, in Ado-Ekiti, on Wednesday.

Ajayi said the call was to afford members of the society more involvement in the activities of the Ministry of Health in moving the state forward, according to him, the health scope is getting wider and all hands must be on deck.

He said the society had always partnered with the ministry in combating Measles, Cholera, Polio as well as in the area of Immunisation, Sanitation, Health awareness campaigns and other health related issues.

Ajayi solicited for the appointment of desk officers from among members of the NRCS in order to cement the bond between it and the ministry.

He said such development would enhance better working relationship between the society and the government.

Contributing, the Ekiti Branch Vice-Chairman of NRCS, Bamidele Arowosola, commended the government for creating the enabling environment for development partners to operate.

He disclosed that the national headquarters of the society was planning a training in conjunction with the state branch for 20 volunteers in the state.

According to him, the training is on Risk Communication and Community Engagement for 20 volunteers each in Ado-Ekiti, Ikere and Ido/Osi Local Government Areas.

Arowosola called on the ministry to continue to collaborate with the society’s capacity building programmes for Ekiti residents.

Responding, Dr Oyebanji Filani, the Ekiti Commissioner for Health and Human Services, assured the ministry of cooperation with organisations working for the state development.

“We have a very clear idea of what we want to do to develop the state.

“We will continue to work with development partners such as WHO, UNICEF as well as the Nigeria Red Cross Society to develop the state,” he said.

He commended the NRCS for its humanitarian services and contributions to the development and wellness of mankind.