The United Nations Children’s Education Fund (UNICEF) has strengthened its partnership with the Ondo State government to scale up prevention and public awareness efforts against Lassa fever.
This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by UNICEF officials, Mrs. Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, and Mrs. Monike Orhorhemreni, an aide to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, in Akure.
Akinola-Akinwole said Lassa fever remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, noting that UNICEF’s ongoing interventions are focused on educating communities on its causes, prevention and control.
She stressed the need for urgent government action to address environmental factors driving the spread of the disease, while calling for stronger collaboration with the ministry to expand outreach across communities in the state.
Responding, Ajanaku commended UNICEF for its sustained support, describing the organisation as a reliable partner in health communication and development.
Read also:
- NCDC reports 109 deaths from Lassa fever outbreak
- Lassa Fever: Enugu Government issues healthcare, public advisory to ensure prevention
- Lassa Fever death toll hits 166 in 2025 as Ondo, Bauchi, Edo others record 90% of cases – NCDC
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at curbing disease outbreaks, particularly Lassa fever, through intensified public sensitisation.
The commissioner also lauded the efforts of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, in ensuring adherence to standard protocols across health facilities, noting that the government has maintained a proactive response to reported cases.
Both parties reiterated their resolve to deepen collaboration in health communication and community engagement to reduce the spread of Lassa fever and improve public health outcomes in Ondo State.
