By Habeeb Ibrahim
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has officially inaugurated a 40-bed Trauma Centre at Ikorodu General Hospital, a significant healthcare milestone for the area.
The facility, facilitated by Hon. Babajimi Benson, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, is expected to provide critical emergency care for residents of Ikorodu and its environs.
Speaking at the event on Monday, Dr. Hamzat emphasized the need for Nigerians to elect leaders committed to the welfare of their constituents.
He praised Benson’s effective representation and called on citizens to prioritize leaders who demonstrate good character and a commitment to community development. “Leadership should go beyond just winning elections; it should be about service,” Hamzat stated.
Hamzat also touched on the progress Lagos has made in infrastructure, highlighting that out of the state’s 9,189 roads, approximately 69 percent are tarred. He reassured the public that the government is focused on constructing durable roads, comparing the country’s current challenges to a patient undergoing surgery, promising that the pain will eventually lead to a stronger nation.
Hon. Babajimi Benson expressed his gratitude to the Lagos State Government for their support, emphasizing that the trauma centre will save lives and strengthen the healthcare infrastructure in the area. He noted the ongoing development projects in Ikorodu, including road constructions, and urged for speedy completion to further improve the community’s infrastructure.
Dr. Hassan, Medical Director of Ikorodu General Hospital, commended the ongoing progress at the facility, which has evolved significantly since its establishment in 1983. “From a four-department facility, we now serve over 90,000 patients monthly across 32 departments,” he stated. He acknowledged the trauma centre as a crucial addition that will enhance emergency care, while also noting the limitations of the existing Accident and Emergency department, which has only 15 beds.
Hon. Adeola Banjo, the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, highlighted the importance of the newly inaugurated Lambo Lasunwon Road, noting that it had been a lifeline for residents for over three decades, especially during the rainy season when poor conditions often disrupted daily life.
In an interview with Ambassador Biliamin Olalekan Oba, SSA to the Governor on Social Development, he praised Hon. Babajimi Benson’s dedication to community development. “It’s impressive to see MHR truly represent the people’s interests, especially through notable infrastructure projects across Ikorodu. His welfare initiatives, such as the iCare food bank and scholarship programs, demonstrate his understanding of the people’s needs,” Oba said.
Odumbo Taiwo, Principal of Lagos State University International School, expressed excitement about the trauma center project alongside the ongoing infrastructural growth in Lagos State. He noted that the second event of the day, the commissioning of Lambo Lasunwon Road, was eagerly awaited by students from nearby schools. “It’s impressive to see this road complete, and we expect Hon. Babajimi Benson to continue his commitment to further road developments in the area,” Taiwo added.
Tijani Olasunkanmi, General LGA Chairman for Ikorodu APC, emphasized the significant impact of the new trauma center on the community, stating that it will save lives by providing immediate medical attention in emergencies. “This project is a game changer for Ikorodu,” he noted, and added that future initiatives, such as the proposed entrepreneurial university in Ikorodu, will further benefit the local community.
Hon. Babajimi Benson’s ongoing efforts continue to enhance the quality of life for the people of Ikorodu, as he remains dedicated to improving infrastructure, healthcare, and welfare services.
