The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preventive healthcare by participating in a tuberculosis (TB) health talk and awareness campaign held at Lakowe Junior High School.
Epe Insights reports that Hon. Olowa joined the First Lady of Lagos State, Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, at the awareness programme organised by the Office of the First Lady Tuberculosis Steering Committee (OFILI). The initiative focused on educating students about tuberculosis prevention, early detection and the importance of eliminating stigma associated with the disease.
The health campaign brought together government officials, healthcare professionals, teachers and students to promote greater understanding of tuberculosis and encourage healthy practices among young people.
Tuberculosis remains one of the world’s most preventable and curable infectious diseases when detected early and treated appropriately. Despite advances in healthcare, delayed diagnosis and misinformation continue to pose significant challenges in many communities.
Speaking during the event, Hon. Olowa described awareness as one of the most effective tools in the fight against tuberculosis. He noted that educating young people about the disease would contribute to early detection, prompt treatment and improved public health outcomes.
He encouraged students to become advocates for healthy living by sharing the knowledge they acquired with their families, friends and members of their communities.
According to the Chairman, empowering students with accurate health information creates a ripple effect that extends beyond the classroom and helps build healthier communities.
The awareness programme emphasized that tuberculosis is both preventable and curable, particularly when individuals seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear.
Health experts at the event explained the importance of recognizing persistent cough, fever, weight loss and night sweats as possible symptoms that require professional medical evaluation.
Participants also received information on reducing stigma associated with tuberculosis, stressing that discrimination often discourages people from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment.
The Office of the First Lady Tuberculosis Steering Committee (OFILI) continues to champion awareness campaigns across Lagos State as part of efforts to reduce the burden of tuberculosis through education and community engagement.
The initiative aligns with broader public health goals aimed at increasing awareness, improving access to healthcare services and encouraging residents to take proactive steps toward disease prevention.
Hon. Olowa reiterated that preventive healthcare remains a major priority of his administration. He stated that investing in health education is essential to building resilient communities and reducing the spread of preventable diseases.
He further assured residents that the local government would continue to support programmes that promote healthy lifestyles, improve public health awareness and enhance access to healthcare information.
The Chairman emphasized that schools provide an ideal platform for health education because students can become effective messengers who influence positive behavioural change within their homes and neighbourhoods.
Teachers at Lakowe Junior High School welcomed the initiative, noting that health education complements academic learning by equipping students with knowledge that protects their wellbeing and supports their overall development.
Parents and community stakeholders also commended the programme, describing it as a valuable intervention that encourages early health-seeking behaviour and helps dispel misconceptions surrounding tuberculosis.
Public health professionals have consistently maintained that awareness campaigns play a crucial role in reducing the spread of infectious diseases by encouraging timely diagnosis, treatment adherence and community support.
They also stress that eliminating stigma is essential for achieving better health outcomes, as individuals are more likely to seek medical care when they feel supported rather than judged.
The campaign highlighted the importance of collaboration between government institutions, schools and healthcare organisations in addressing public health challenges through sustained education and advocacy.
Such partnerships continue to strengthen healthcare delivery by ensuring that accurate information reaches young people and vulnerable populations across local communities.
As Ibeju-Lekki continues to expand access to health education, programmes like the tuberculosis awareness campaign demonstrate the value of preventive healthcare in safeguarding lives and promoting long-term community wellbeing.
Hon. Olowa reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve the health of residents through education, awareness and strategic partnerships.
He expressed confidence that sustained public enlightenment would contribute to reducing the incidence of tuberculosis while creating healthier communities across Ibeju-Lekki.
The TB awareness campaign at Lakowe Junior High School concluded with renewed calls for students, educators and community members to remain informed, support one another and promote healthy practices that contribute to a safer and healthier society.
Through continued collaboration with the Lagos State Government and relevant stakeholders, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government says it will remain committed to programmes that prioritize disease prevention, health education and the overall wellbeing of every resident.
