The Executive Chairman of Ipokia Local Government, Hon. Johnson Akohomeh Avoseh, officially flagged off the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) intervention programme targeting the prevention and treatment of Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) and Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis) at the Council Secretariat.
The programme, organized by the Ipokia Local Government Health Authority in collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Health and supported by CBM, is aimed at eradicating these diseases within communities across Ipokia Local Government.
The flag-off according to a statement signed by the Executive Chairman
Ipokia Local Government Media and Public Engagement team
had in attendance the State Coordinator of the project, representatives of the Local Government Health Authority, the Health Educator, medical practitioners, and key stakeholders within the health sector, alongside the Supervisor for Health and Medical Services, while the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) was represented by the Director of General Services and Administration (DGSA).
During the sensitization session, stakeholders were enlightened on the causes and transmission of the diseases, which are linked to poor sanitation, unsafe water, and bites from infected vectors such as black flies. It was explained that the effects of Lymphatic Filariasis may take several years, sometimes between 10 to 20 years, before becoming evident.
Participants were also informed that children under five years, pregnant women, and individuals with certain underlying health conditions are exempted from the drug administration exercise.
As part of the flag-off activities, a demonstration exercise was carried out where the Executive Chairman and other Local Government officials were administered the preventive medications (Mectizan and Albendazole), which are provided free of charge to residents.
The programme is scheduled to run from 25th March to 30th March 2026 across various communities in Ipokia Local Government, with the goal of improving public health and eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases.
