To enhance efficiency, accountability and strategic planning in the healthcare sector, the Ogun State Government has launched a high-level capacity-building workshop for health leaders and managers across the State.

The 4-day programme organised in collaboration with the Sector-wide Approach (SWAp) coordinating office, Federal Ministry of Health, with participants drawn from various health institutions and agencies in the State as well as development partners, at the Ogun State Drug and Health Commodities Management Agency (OGDHCMA) Hall, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

 Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, speaking at the opening, disclosed that the workshop was aimed at building the capacity of key health leaders and managers at contributing impactfully to the development of realistic, pragmatic and comprehensive plans that informs health budgets for the people of Ogun State.

She noted that a resilient health system depends not only on physical infrastructure but also on the capacity of those who manage it, emphasising the importance of strengthening leadership within the sector to consolidate and expand on the strides made under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration.

"Our Governor has made significant and commendable investments in health infrastructure across the State, an essential foundation for achieving our goal of accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.”

“ No matter the scale of investment in buildings or equipment, without well-trained professionals to manage and operate them, the system cannot deliver optimal results,” she said.

The Commissioner described the workshop as a strategic move to equip health professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective planning, programme execution and evidence-based decision-making that meets the needs of the people.

Responding, on behalf of the key development partners at the Workshop, the State Coordinator, World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Akinola Fatiregun, representative of Society for Family Health (SFH), Mrs. Omotayo Adeyemi and Christian Blind Mission (CBM), Mr. Buhari Samaila, aligned on the need for consistent training and re-training of health care providers, assuring of their organisations' continued collaboration with the Ogun State Government to drive health outcomes.

Reacting, a participant at the workshop, Mr. Osunji Edwin, lauded the State government’s commitment to effective coordination with the Federal Government on health systems strengthening, adding that the training would sharpen the skills of the participants towards ensuring Ogun State Standard in healthcare delivery.