The Lagos state first lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has appointed Epe Local Government Chairman, Ms. Surah Animashaun, as Tuberculosis (TB), Champion Ambassador of the state.
Ibijoke, who made this known while conferring the honour upon her and others, during the inauguration of the state TB Steering Committee and the Lagos STOP TB partnership, held at First Lady Banquet Hall, Alausa, Ikeja.
“Indeed, you have demonstrated unwavering commitment towards revitalising the health sector in the local government council and your initiatives to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) and other health-related programmes in the council deserves you to be honoured and conferred you as an Ambassador,” Ibijoke said.
Ibijoke, who was impressed with the achievement of the council Chairman, Animashaun, said this could not have been possible without determination, resilience and hard work.
She said, “I can see why you continue to be an inspiration to many female Chairmen across the length and breadth of this state. You have gone further by initiating a very laudable programme in your council area, because you are determined to tell your story and encourage other Chairmen,” she said.
She charged the Chairmen to play a vital role in changing of attitudes, debunking myths, and ensuring TB is treated with seriousness it deserve, saying that the state has been taking proactive steps to combat TB in the state.
Earlier, the Chairperson, Ms. Animashaun told the first lady of her immense gratitude for the support she received from her office, adding that he felt proud to be a Nigerian.
Animashaun described TB as a preventable and treatable disease, if especially people could be worked together to educate the communities, promote, and ensure access to quality healthcare service delivery, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the first lady and other stakeholders involved in the fight against TB in the state.
She said; “my investiture is a call to action, and I pledged to work closely with the first lady to achieve the goal of eliminating TB in the state, and I also promised to implement policies and mobilise resources to support TB control programmes through fostering collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders to strengthen the fight against TB,” Animashaun said.
The event witnessed other female conference of the 57 Chairmen who were also decorated as TB Champions and Ambassadors in their respective council areas, also wives of the 57 Chairmen were tasked with leading grassroots advocacy towards TB eradication and leveraging their unique positions as women and spouses.
Also, a symbol of their investiture, all TB champions were decorated and presented with roll-up banners to enhance the campaign and boost public awareness about free TB diagnosis, treatment, and support for patients.
