NDDC PARTNERS ONDO GOVT. TO EFFECTIVELY FIGHT LASSA FEVER.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, is now collaborating with the Ondo State Government to fight the spread of Lassa fever in the state.

The NDDC Medical Personnel, who are already in the state, are expected to work directly with the officials of the State Ministry of Health and the Local Government Chairmen.

Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, who spoke on behalf of the State Government while receiving NDDC officials at the Governor’s office, Alagbaka in Akure, said the state government sought the support of the commission because it’s believed that the disease is more deadly than Ebola.

He said “presently we do not have vaccines to cure this lassa fever and it is the duty of the government to ensure this disease is eradicated in our society.

Ajayi pledged the cooperation of the government for the commission in the fight against lassa fever in the state.

According to the Deputy Governor, “the presence of the chairmen of the local governments caretaker committees at this occasion signaled the determination of the state to take the fight to the grassroots.

“I can assure you that our chairmen here will go back to their respective councils and get prepared for the consultants that will move in with them. They will work closely with them and anything they need, they should be able to provide especially in the area of security, conducive environment for then to operate and carry out their sensitization without molestation of any kind’.

Ajayi, however lauded the NDDC for its intervention programmes in the state which include the ongoing road project that would link the state with Lekki, Lagos State.

The Director of Education, Health and Social Services of the commission, Okejoto Gochua, in his remarks said the commission is donating some items to the State Government.

He diclosed that the items include two ambulances, Hilux and Lassa Fever protective kits.

He hinted that the commission through its consultants would also engage in educating the populace on the scourge.

“It is the wish of the NDDC to support the government and people of Ondo and Edo States with the donation of Lassa Fever protective kits, ambulances, Hilux and by conducting sensitization and advocacy programmes against this deadly disease. This support aims to complement the state government’s efforts in the fight against lassa virus to prevent further spread of the disease’, he said.