In commemoration of World Diabetes Day, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Health Matters Incorporated, organized a Global Diabetes Walk and Free Diabetes Screening Exercise at the Lagos State Government Secretariat in Alausa. Participants walked through the Secretariat complex to raise awareness of diabetes and its impact on well-being. Public servants were also offered free diabetes screenings to identify potential risks early.

The event, themed “Diabetes and Well-being,” aimed to increase awareness and access to diabetes screening among Lagosians, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes in diabetes prevention.

Speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing diabetes prevalence through awareness and proactive health screenings. “We are here today to break barriers and bridge the gaps in diabetes awareness and prevention. Diabetes is a condition we can fight and overcome if we address the issues and factors that predispose people to it. While some risk factors are beyond our control, like genetics and age, others can be modified. That’s where our focus lies—empowering people with knowledge on managing their health.”

Dr. Ogboye, represented by Dr. Victoria Egunjobi, Director of Disease Control, stressed the role of healthy choices, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking and alcohol to reduce diabetes risk. “But before you can manage it, you need to know your numbers,” he noted.

“We want people to understand that healthier choices, regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly reduce their risk. But before you can manage it, you need to know your numbers—your blood glucose and blood pressure levels. Today, we are making it easy for everyone to know those numbers.”

The Permanent Secretary announced a partnership with the Nigeria Governors Forum to provide free diabetes and hypertension screenings in 330 public health facilities across Lagos. “This initiative ensures every Lagosian has access to early detection and can take steps toward a healthier life.”, he said.

He urged everyone to participate in the free screenings and spread the word within their communities. “We want to prevent diabetes before it becomes a crisis. This initiative will help individuals catch any warning signs early on, enabling them to make informed decisions for their health. Encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to walk, eat healthily, and stay active.”

Dr. Ogboye also shed light on the importance of understanding modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. “While family history and age are fixed, many other risk factors are within our control,” he said. “Regular exercise, even brisk walking five days a week, a balanced diet rich in vegetables and lean proteins, and avoiding tobacco are all ways to reduce the risk. This is about making simple but effective changes that benefit everyone—ourselves, our families, and our communities.”, he said.

Health Matters Incorporated’s Executive Director, Dr. Peter Ujomu, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to deepen our work with the state government this year. Our aim is to reach communities across Lagos with screenings, education, and resources.”

Dr. Ujomu revealed that, in collaboration with the Health Strategy Development Foundation (HSDF), Health Matters Incorporated would continue the diabetes awareness campaign beyond today. “This project spans 50 primary healthcare centers in 13 local government areas, where residents can receive free screenings and referrals as needed. It’s all about getting the community engaged and informed.”

He encouraged everyone present to share the message within their networks. “Help us spread the word about the dangers of diabetes and the importance of regular screenings. Prevention is better than cure, and we want every Lagosian to live a healthier, longer life.”

Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, the Ikeja Division Coordinator, Mrs. Jennifer Steve-Sanni, highlighted the benefits of enrolling in the Lagos State Health Scheme – Ilera Eko. She noted that under the scheme, diabetes treatments and routine check-ups are fully covered for registered members. “For civil servants, it’s as easy as a small deduction from your monthly salary,” she explained.

Mrs. Steve-Sanni thanked Mr. Governor for his support in covering healthcare costs for vulnerable residents. She encouraged everyone to take advantage of the health scheme and bring their loved ones into the fold. “Let’s ensure that diabetes care is accessible to all Lagosians,” she added, “so that everyone can benefit from routine screenings and preventive services.”

The Lagos State Ministry of Health and Health Matters Incorporated remain committed to reducing diabetes through health literacy and screening access. “Together, we can reduce the burden of diabetes on our communities,” Dr. Ogboye concluded.

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