By Dayo Johnson Akure

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has strengthened its partnership with the Ondo State Government to boost efforts against Lassa fever.

Its representatives, Mrs. Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, and Mrs. Monike Orhorhemreni, SBCC officer, visited the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, in Akure, to discuss the campaign.

Speaking during the visit, Akinola-Akinwole, highlighted the need for government intervention in addressing environmental factors contributing to the disease’s spread.

Akinwole emphasized that environmental factors contributing to the spread of the disease require urgent government intervention

She called for increased support through the ministry to effectively reach communities across Ondo State.

Responding, the Commissioner, Ajanaku, assured the team of the government’s commitment to supporting public health initiatives and pledged enhanced collaboration to sensitize residents.

Ajanaku commended UNICEF for its consistent partnership with the state over the years, describing the organization as a trusted ally in health communication and development initiatives.

He assured the team of the state government’s continued commitment to supporting all campaigns aimed at promoting public health and preventing disease outbreaks, particularly Lassa fever.

The commissioner further pledged enhanced collaboration through the ministry to ensure wider sensitization of residents, stressing that maintaining a healthy society remains a top priority of the administration.

Ajanaku also noted that the state government has consistently responded decisively to reported cases of Lassa fever and commended the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, for his efforts in maintaining effective standard protocols across health facilities.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening partnership in health communication and community engagement, with a shared resolve to reduce the spread of Lassa fever and improve overall public health outcomes in Ondo State.