Jericho Specialist Hospital, Ibadan, has successfully undergone a re-accreditation assessment by a team from the West African College of Physicians (WACP), signaling yet another milestone in the ongoing efforts of the Oyo State Government to strengthen healthcare delivery and medical training in the state.

The accreditation visit, which took place from Monday 7th April and ended on the 9th April,2025 was focused on the Family Medicine Residency Training Programme at Jericho Specialist Hospital, a secondary healthcare facility solely dedicated to the training of Family Physicians.

The evaluation team was led by Professor Paul Dienye of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, with Professor Matthew Agboola from Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti, and Dr. Nnena Okafor from the National Hospital, Abuja, as members. The team conducted a thorough inspection of the hospital’s infrastructure, clinical services, and affiliated training sites.

The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, who welcomed the team, reiterated the State Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting excellence in healthcare training and service delivery. Dr. Ajetunmobi highlighted the strategic investments made by the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration in upgrading healthcare infrastructure, enhancing workforce development, and creating enabling environments for specialist training across the state.

During the debriefing session, the WACP team expressed satisfaction with the hospital’s performance, especially in areas such as the availability of a functional oxygen plant, adequate clinical equipment, and a strong patient load necessary for training. They commended Oyo State for setting a precedent by dedicating a secondary facility exclusively to family medicine training.

The team, however, recommended that the hospital be granted semi-autonomous status to drive more operational flexibility and sustainability. This will also encourage the engagement of retired consultants as visiting trainers.

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Akin Fagbemi, expressed appreciation to the WACP team for their thorough assessment and constructive feedback. He assured them that the State would address the identified gaps, particularly in posting additional personnel to the facility and other necessary support to ensure smooth operations and continuous improvement.

While the official re-accreditation outcome is being awaited, the feedback received strongly indicates a successful re-accreditation for another five years—a significant validation of the investments and reforms being championed in Oyo State’s health sector.

Other members present at the debriefing were the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, the Permanent Secretary Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Anifat Ibraheem, Head of Hospital, Dr. Helen Ilori, Residency Training Coordinator, Dr. Waliat Adekunle, other Directors from Hospitals Management Board, Consultants and Residents from the Jericho Specialist Hospital

…flags off 2025 World TB Day

The Oyo State Government has taken a bold step towards combating tuberculosis (TB) by collaborating with development health partners to establish free TB services in 774 Health Facilities across the state.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr.Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi while flagging of Community Outreach and Awareness Creation of TB for 2025 World TB Day held at Ibadan North Local Government Headquarters, Ibadan, said that Governor ‘Seyi led administration prioritize the health of the Citizenry.

She said that the Community Outreach and Awareness Creation was aimed at providing accessible and affordable healthcare to residents, particularly those experiencing symptoms of TB.

She explained that TB Day, which is usually observed annually on March 24th, is a global event that provides an opportunity to raise awareness about TB, review the progress, and renew the commitment to eliminating the TB.

She hinted that the week has been dedicated to strengthening awareness campaigns across the State, with the focus on educating residents about the symptoms of TB.

The commissioner admonished individuals expressing a persistent cough lasting two weeks or more to get tested.

She expressed her appreciation to the executive chairman of Ibadan North East Local Government for providing an enabling environment, also to the implementing partners (WHO,IHVN,APIN,COF,Damien Foundation Belgium and host of others whose efforts are greatly contributed to ending TB in Oyo state.

According to her, this year’s theme,”Yes! We Can End TB:Commit, Invest and Deliver”,reflects our collective determination and the urgent need for intestified action at all levels.

“Unfortunately, Nigeria ranks 6th among the 30 high TB burden countries in the world and 1st in Africa, with Oyo State positioned 13th among the high,TB burden states in the country.

In their separate remarks, the representatives of Breakthrough Action Nigeria, Damien Foundation Belgium, Institute Of Human Virology, Nigeria, APIN- Public Health Initiative and other Implementing Partners, implored everyone to know his or her status and spread the information to others.

They commended the Oyo state government for the collaboration efforts to put TB to an end in Oyo state.

Approximately 10 students from The Polytechnic Ibadan are currently receiving medical treatment in government hospitals after inhaling a toxic gas and collapsing on Tuesday.

The Oyo State government acted swiftly upon receiving a distress call, deploying an emergency response team to the tertiary institution. The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, led the immediate intervention.

The affected students were quickly evacuated and taken to Ring Road State Hospital and the University College Hospital (UCH) for urgent care.

According to eyewitnesses, the students, who are from the Science Laboratory and Technology Department, were in their lecture hall following a course test when a fight broke out between two individuals. As others attempted to intervene, an unidentified choking substance was allegedly released into the air by one of the students, causing several to collapse and some to lose consciousness. Ten students were impacted by the incident.

Dr. Ajetunmobi personally visited the hospitals to assess the condition of the students, confirming that they had been stabilised and were receiving appropriate medical attention.

She called on the management of The Polytechnic Ibadan to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable.

The Commissioner also stressed the importance of organising sensitisation programmes for students to discourage acts of violence and harmful behaviour that could endanger public safety.

She reiterated the Ministry of Health’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all Oyo State residents and assured that the ministry would continue to respond promptly to health-related emergencies.

The Rector of The Polytechnic Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo, expressed gratitude for the state government’s swift response and pledged to identify and address the individuals responsible for the incident

Accompanying the Commissioner were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde; the Director of Secondary Health Care and Training, Dr. Adekunle Aremu; the Director of Nursing Services, Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Oyebode; the Director of Food, Water, and Laboratory Services, Mrs. Afusat Akande; and members of the Rapid Response Team.

Despite ongoing effects by the Government and relevant stakeholders at reducing childhood malnutrition status, the persistent burden of malnutrition among women and children threatens the health and future development of the Country.

 This was contained in the address by the Oyo State Commissioner of Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, at the Oyo State Primary Health Care Level Maternal and Young Child Nutrition (MYCN) training sponsored by the World Bank and the Accelerating Nutrition Result in Nigeria (ANRIN) at the Kakanfo Inn, Ring Road, Ibadan on December 10, 2024.

 The training is expected to hold between December 8 and December 17, 2024. While speaking on the first day of the seven-day training of health workers which comprised of nurses, community health extension workers (CHEW), community health officers (CHO) and midwives, Dr Ajetunmobi explained the importance of the training for primary health workers from the grassroots level of the local government.

 According to her, “Many mothers and caregivers do not have adequate knowledge of appropriate feeding practices and those that have the knowledge, often do not imbibe the required attitude and practice irrespective of the acquired knowledge.

 “As part of the efforts to implement the 64th NCH Resolution, The Nutrition Department of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with key stakeholders conducted five batches of National ToT between August 2023 and March 2024.

 ‘’253 National Master Trainers were trained across the nation on the MIYCN course from the 36 states and FCT. “2,200 master trainers (60 per state) were also trained at the State level including 81 master trainers in Oyo State alone.

 “Health workers are expected to provide accurate information to households, mothers and other caregivers on optimal maternal, infant and young child nutrition, ensuring that families are supported and well-informed to provide optimal maternal infant and young child nutrition practices.”

 She explained further that to perform this role effectively, the capacity of health workers must be adequately built.

 In her own remarks, the director of Nutrition and the Primary Health Care Board and the project coordinator of the Accelerating Nutrition Result in Nigeria (ARIN), Dr Khadijat Alarape explained that the programme is an initiative of the Federal Ministry Of Health in collaboration with the World Bank.

 She said, “The purpose of this training is to reduce malnutrition as we deal with pregnant women and children. This is the last level whereby health workers working at the grassroots at the ANC clinics, the paediatric clinics are invited.

 “We are building the capacity of the relevant health workers providing their services at the primary health care level. When these capacities are built, they will be able to pass the right message.”

Oyo State Government is set to screen Three Hundred and Forty-seven thousand, three hundred and four (347, 304) individuals as ‘Project 10 million Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers’ commences in Ibadan.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi stated this at the unveiling of the Project 10 Million with the members of the State Executive Cabinet at the office of the Governor.

According to the Commissioner, the Project 10 Million is a nationwide screening initiative, aimed at screening 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes across the 36 States of Nigeria and the FCT within a 7 days period in October, 2024.

Dr. Ajetumobi explained that the objective of the project is to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes, promoting early detection, prevention, and control of cardiometabolic diseases, using the slogan – “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers”

She added that “knowing your vital health metrics empowers you to take timely actions and make the right decision concerning your health, while controlling them prevents complications that may arise from ignorance or neglect”.

The Commissioner added that the screening will include blood pressure and blood sugar tests to detect hypertension and diabetes, alongside other anthropometric measurements that pertain to the health of the heart, blood vessels and general body metabolism processes.

She stressed that the screening process is safe and uses standard, point-of-care testing.

“The Nigerian Health Commissioner’s Forum is initiating the project and executing in partnership with professional bodies, developmental agencies, and Donors. Project 10 Million will utilize a team of trained healthcare workers who will visit various communities within each State.

They will set up temporary screening stations at designated locations, making the screening accessible to the community”, she said.

The Commissioner concluded that everyone aged 18 years and above are eligible for the screening and the screening is absolutely free.

“This means that you do not have to make any payment for the registration as well as other services accessed during the screening exercise”.

Dr. Ajetumobi said participants will receive their test results and counseling on the spot.

People who have abnormal results will receive some first contact care or be referred to nearby Government-owned health facilities for further evaluation, treatment and follow-up care, she said.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

… As initiative aims to reduce childhood blindness

Stakeholders have urged parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s eye health, preventing trauma and distance vision impairment.

The call was in commemoration of World Sight Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of October. This year’s theme, “Love Your Eyes Kids,” highlights the need for awareness and action.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaseremi Ajetunmobi, represented by Dr. Babalola Johnson, emphasized the public’s role in preventing vision impairment through proper eye care

She explained the Common causes of visual impairment in children include uncorrected refractive errors, corneal diseases, and retina disorders.

Dr. Ajetunmobi stressed the importance of stakeholders supporting prevention and reduction of blindness in the State Chairman of the Oyo State Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, Dr. Yinka Ologunsua, noted that parents often punish children for poor performance without addressing underlying eye issues.

She stated that “The day is significant as it conveys the message of commitment to taking action for global eye health care which is an integral part of universal health coverage and ensuring we meet the SDGs target.

“This commemoration is an opportunity to create awareness on importance of eye sight for all especially the vulnerable children with poor eye sight which lead to poor performance in school and dropout.

“The present administration has made health one of its major pillars and ensured that the citizens have access to quality and affordable health care services particularly through Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) which is present in all the 33 local Government areas of the State.

“Eye sight care is an essential component of service for which OYSHIA provides care.

“The prevalence of distance vision impairment in low- and middle-income region to which Nigeria belongs is estimated to be four times higher than in high income region.

“The most common causes of visual impairment in children worldwide were uncorrected refractive error followed by amblyopia, corneal diseases and retina disorder. Therefore, attention need to be paid to eye health in children.

“It is therefore important for stakeholders in child rearing to support the move towards preventing and reducing the burden of blindness in the State.

“This year’s commemoration activities involve awareness, debate and screening for secondary school children.

“Thereby restoring hope to all with eye challenges among our children. This will improve their academic performance and productiveness, said.

Dr. Ologunsua advised parents to Examine newborns and monitor eye health, encourage children to wear corrective Lense, limit screen time and promote a healthy diet.

“This huge base of the population pyramid has longer “vision years” hence requires full attention from all stakeholders, themselves, parents, teachers, health workers and Government at all levels.

“Childhood blindness is one of the leading causes of blindness. Prevalence of childhood blindness rages from 3 per 10000 to 10 per 10000 in high income to low income countries respectively.

“Of note is the fact that refractive errors which can be corrected accounts for the leading cause of childhood blindness.

“Several parents have unjustifiably, and with the highest level of ignorance punished their children for poor performance at school, sitting close to the television or holding books close to their eyes to read – all these are symptoms of refractive errors! To make matters worse, they also refuse their children wearing corrective lenses!

Earlier in her welcome address, Director of Food, Water Laboratory Sciences, Mrs. Afusat Akande, emphasized the importance of educating children on healthy eating habits from a young age and balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is crucial for maintaining good eye health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one person becomes blind every minute, and one child becomes blind every five minutes. Nearly one in 1000 children are blind globally.

The event was organized by the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, Nigeria Ophthalmic Nurse, Nigeria Optometrists Association, Lion Club, and Rotary International Club.

In a recent address, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, articulated the pressing issue of viral hepatitis in Nigeria, describing it as a silent health crisis that starkly contrasts with the visible progress made in combating HIV.

She emphasized that, while efforts to reduce HIV prevalence have received significant attention, viral hepatitis poses a critical threat, affecting one in every twelve Nigerians through either Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C.

Dr. Ajetunmobi acknowledged the Oyo State Government’s proactive measures under the visionary leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde. She noted that the administration has launched a series of targeted initiatives aimed at addressing this urgent health challenge.

She pointed out that comprehensive programs have been implemented, including the vaccination of all infants against Hepatitis B and the screening of pregnant women for the virus. She stressed that these foundational steps are crucial for protecting future generations and ensuring maternal health.

The Commissioner highlighted a particularly noteworthy intervention focusing on Hepatitis C, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations such as people who inject drugs and prisoners. She explained that the Oyo State Government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Society for Family Health to launch the HCV Combination Prevention in PWID and Prisoners Project (HEPC3P). Dr. Ajetunmobi described this project as a significant advancement in the fight against viral hepatitis, stating that it builds on the existing health framework established under Engr. Makinde’s leadership.

She expressed pride in the HEPC3P Project, noting that it is groundbreaking and being implemented in only five countries worldwide, with Nigeria among them. Oyo State, alongside Gombe, is one of the only two States in Nigeria with an established Hepatitis C program. The Commissioner conveyed her optimism that this project would introduce innovative tools and strategies, significantly enhancing access to prevention and treatment for the most affected populations.
She said,

“The HEPC3P Project is groundbreaking, as it is being implemented in only five countries globally, with Nigeria being one of them. Oyo State, along with Gombe, is one of the only two States in Nigeria with an established Hepatitis C program. This project will introduce innovative tools and strategies, significantly enhancing access to prevention and treatment for the most affected populations”

Dr. Ajetunmobi attributed these achievements to the unwavering commitment of Engr. Seyi Makinde to public health and the coordinating ability of the Ministry of Health. She affirmed that their collaborative leadership not only addresses the immediate needs of those affected by viral hepatitis but also sets a precedent for future health initiatives across Nigeria.

She reiterated that through these combined efforts, Oyo State is paving the way for a healthier future. She asserted that with the right focus and resources, it is possible to tackle even the most daunting health crises. The Commissioner’s words served as a reminder of the transformative power of proactive healthcare, inspiring hope and a collective commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by viral hepatitis.

Under the visionary leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde, Oyo State has navigated the complexities of HIV service delivery to emerge as one of Nigeria’s top five States in HIV sustainability.

This remarkable achievement reflects not only the administration’s commitment to public health but also its ability to turn challenges into opportunities.

Central to this transformation was the appointment of Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi as the Honourable Commissioner for Health. Her expertise and dedication have been instrumental in implementing the State’s health policies, which muscularly hinged on Omituntun 2.0, epitomizing the principle of putting a “round peg in a round hole.”
Dr. Ajetunmobi’s approach to leadership has fostered a collaborative environment where innovative solutions could thrive.

Oyo State boasts a remarkably low HIV prevalence rate of just 0.9%, making it one of the least affected States in Nigeria and the second lowest in the southwestern region.

However, this success was hard-won. The administration faced significant challenges, including stigma, inadequate access to healthcare, and the need for improved funding and resources. Rather than seeing these hurdles as insurmountable, Engr. Makinde’s Government viewed them as catalysts for change.

Under Dr. Ajetunmobi’s guidance, the State launched a comprehensive strategy to enhance HIV services. This initiative included the integration of HIV prevention and treatment within mainstream healthcare, ensuring that those in need could access care without stigma. With over 42 treatment centers and more than 1,600 service delivery points established, the Government significantly improved access to vital services.

Recognizing the financial barriers faced by many, especially the indigent population living with HIV, the administration has initiated a nearly finalized free enrollment program for health insurance for some people living with HIV. This innovative step aims to ensure that even the most vulnerable individuals can receive the care they need without the burden of cost. The commitment to inclusivity underscores Engr. Makinde’s belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.

To further bolster community engagement, the Government implemented awareness campaigns that emphasized the importance of HIV testing and treatment. By promoting openness and reducing stigma, Oyo State has fostered a supportive environment that encourages individuals to seek help. This cultural shift has been vital in increasing testing rates and connecting more people to care.

The culmination of these efforts has garnered recognition for Oyo State, which was recently honored as one of the five States most prepared to own and sustain an HIV program in Nigeria.

This accolade reflects the tireless work of Engr. Seyi Makinde and Dr. Ajetunmobi, whose collaborative efforts have paved the way for a healthier future for the people of Oyo State.

Through effective leadership, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to public health, the Makinde administration has not only transformed HIV services but also set a benchmark for other States to follow. The journey is far from over, but with a foundation built on resilience and innovation, the future looks promising for those living with HIV in Oyo State. Engr. Seyi Makinde’s visionary governance continues to inspire hope and drive positive change, proving that challenges can indeed be transformed into triumphs.

In a significant move to eradicate tuberculosis and leprosy in the State, the Oyo State Government has donated motorcycles to all Tuberculosis and Leprosy Supervisory (TBLS) Officers across the State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, while handing over the motorcycles to the officers on behalf of the State Government, emphasized that the motorcycle donation through the support of Global Fund is a significant step towards enhancing the mobility of the TBLS Officers. This will lead to improved active surveillance, rapid detection of diseases, enhanced case finding and management, and increased access to remote and hard-to-reach areas, thereby making their work more effective and impactful.

Dr. Ajetunmobi reiterated the Ministry of Health’s unwavering commitment to the Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program. The ultimate goal is to reduce tuberculosis in the State to a level where it no longer poses a public health problem in Oyo State and Nigeria at large. This donation is a clear demonstration of the Government’s determination to reach the grassroots level and eradicate these diseases.

The Commissioner, therefore, thanked the various health partners in the State for their efforts to complement the Government in the fight against tuberculosis and leprosy. She charged the TBLS officers to do their work with diligence and passion, adding that the Government is also striving to make their work easy by providing for their basic needs, part of which is motorcycle donations.

She said,

“I appreciate God for making today a reality, even though it has been in the pipeline for a long time. I want to also thank our partners for not waving the needs of our officers aside. This shows that the little we’re doing, they’re seeing it, and they appreciate us, which is the essence of making this to come. This will help us manoeuvre our way to the hard-to-reach areas where vehicles cannot get to.”

In his remark, the Chairman of the TBLS Officers in Oyo State, Prince Oyebamiji Akanbi, expressed his appreciation to the State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for making this possible. He added that this is the first time such a donation will be made to the officers to ease their work. He added that this would go a long way to improving their work, thereby reducing the number of tuberculosis cases in the State.