Over 900 patients have so far benefited from the Ekiti State Government’s Free Surgical Programme, with many of the beneficiaries undergoing surgeries for cataracts, fibroids, and appendicitis at the Oba Adejugbe General Hospital, Ado-Ekiti and selected general hospitals across the state.
The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services , Dr. Oyebanji Filani who made this known in Ado-Ekiti while featuring on Ekiti Loni/Ekiti Today, a live audience participation programme on radio noted that the programme has also provided cesarean sections surgeries for expectant mothers and hydrocele surgeries for over 70 men, with more scheduled surgeries in the weeks to come.
Dr. Filani credited the successes so far recorded in the State’s Health Sector to the substantial investments by the Oyebanji administration in Ekiti’s health infrastructure and services, which have improved hospital facilities and health outcomes.
He highlighted ongoing construction and renovation efforts at Ekiti University Teaching Hospital and nine general hospitals, emphasizing the goal of making these facilities conducive for both staff and patients.
Reflecting on the recent Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), Dr. Filani noted that Ekiti State achieved significant gains, including a 50% reduction in neonatal, infant, and under-five mortality rates over the past five years.
He noted that the state improved from 31st to 5th best performer in neonatal mortality nationwide, alongside a 37% reduction in teenage pregnancy and increased facility deliveries by 14%.
The Ekiti Health Commissioner attributed these advancements to the robust support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, accountability, teamwork, and frequent performance reviews.
Dr. Filani added that Ekiti State has enhanced work conditions for health workers, including hazard allowances and regular training to align with modern healthcare standards, with new recruitment efforts underway to strengthen the workforce.
He urged Ekiti residents to utilize Government hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centers across the state, where they can access free services like antenatal and postnatal care, safe deliveries, and malaria diagnosis and treatment, all supported by Governor Oyebanji’s administration.
