BY IRIBHOGBE BUKUNOLA MONSURAT
The Lagos State Government, in its continued drive towards inclusive governance, through the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, held the last edition of the Mother and Infant Child Development Programme (MICHD) at the Lagos State Health District I.
Speaking at the event, recently held at Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu Primary Health Centre, Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore emphasised that the MICHD initiative remains a vital channel for strengthening the State’s engagement with citizens, in this case, pregnant women who represent one of the most delicate segments of society.
She described the programme as a practical demonstration of the State Government’s commitment to listening, connecting and responding to the needs of residents through targeted, people-centred interventions. She highlighted that citizen engagement is not limited to town hall meetings or policy dialogues, but also includes programmes that directly impact the well-being of the people.
She further noted that MICHD creates a bridge between the government and households, ensuring that no mother or child is left behind in the State’s developmental agenda.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District I, Dr Sola Pitan, while delivering his welcome address, appreciated the Lagos State Government, saying that the Government is not resting on its oars in making sure that every resident of Lagos gets the dividends of democracy.
He emphasised that the State’s investments in health infrastructure and personnel are designed to support expectant mothers and improve maternal outcomes, and encouraged pregnant mothers to make use of public health centres for safe delivery and professional antenatal care.
Delivering his goodwill message, the Chairman of Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Akinola Abiodun Idowu, appreciated the Lagos State Government for bringing the MICHD programme to the community and for demonstrating a continued commitment to grassroots engagement and maternal wellbeing.
He added that initiatives such as the MICHD programme will give the State Government as well as the Local Government a chance to review what has been done and to plan for the future so that the residents of Lagos can continue to enjoy the benefit of good governance.
The highlight of the programme was the State Engagement Session where pregnant women were able to participate in open dialogue, learn about ongoing government programmes, share their experiences, express their needs and engage directly with government representatives.
Present at the event were dignitaries from Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area, Health Workers from various Public Health Centres under Lagos State Health District I, as well as Management and Staff of the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement.