The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed her commitment to promoting preventive healthcare by leading a Tuberculosis (TB) Health Talk and Awareness Campaign at Lakowe Junior High School in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area.
Epe Insights reports that the awareness programme was organised by the Office of the First Lady Tuberculosis Steering Committee (OFILI) as part of ongoing efforts to educate young people about tuberculosis prevention, early diagnosis and the importance of eliminating stigma associated with the disease.
The event brought together students, teachers, healthcare professionals and government officials, including the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, who joined the First Lady in promoting healthier communities through education and public awareness.
Addressing participants, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu emphasized that tuberculosis remains both preventable and curable when detected early and treated promptly. She stressed that increased awareness is one of the most effective tools for reducing late diagnosis and encouraging people to seek medical attention without fear or discrimination.
The First Lady urged students to take the lessons from the campaign beyond the classroom by sharing the information with their families, friends and neighbours. She noted that young people can play an important role in spreading accurate health information and encouraging healthy practices within their communities.
She also highlighted the need to tackle misconceptions surrounding tuberculosis, explaining that stigma often discourages individuals from accessing diagnosis and treatment at the right time.
The TB awareness campaign forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader commitment to strengthening public health through education, advocacy and community engagement. Through the Office of the First Lady Tuberculosis Steering Committee, the state continues to expand awareness programmes that encourage early detection and improved health outcomes.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa commended the First Lady for championing initiatives that place the health and wellbeing of residents at the forefront of public service. He described the campaign as a timely intervention that will improve health literacy among students and their families.
The council chairman encouraged students to become ambassadors of good health by applying the knowledge gained during the programme and helping to create greater awareness about tuberculosis in their communities.
He reaffirmed that the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government will continue to support programmes that promote preventive healthcare, health education and community wellbeing through strategic partnerships with the Lagos State Government and other stakeholders.
Health professionals at the event reminded participants that persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, fever and night sweats should never be ignored, urging anyone experiencing such symptoms to seek medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility.
They also emphasized that early diagnosis and proper treatment remain essential in preventing the spread of tuberculosis and improving recovery outcomes.
Teachers and education stakeholders welcomed the initiative, noting that schools remain important platforms for health education because students can influence positive behavioural change within their homes and communities.
Parents also applauded the First Lady’s continued efforts to promote public health awareness, describing the programme as a valuable investment in the wellbeing of children and future generations.
The campaign concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between government institutions, schools and healthcare professionals to sustain public awareness and encourage healthy lifestyles across Lagos State.
By leading the tuberculosis awareness campaign, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu once again demonstrated her dedication to advancing preventive healthcare, empowering young people with life-saving knowledge and supporting initiatives that contribute to healthier communities throughout Lagos State.
