The Ogun State Ward Development Committee Council has called for deeper collaboration with the Ogun State House of Assembly to strengthen primary health care delivery across the 20 Local Government Areas of the state.
The State Chairman of the Council, Asiwaju Dapo Wahab, made the appeal on Tuesday during a strategic engagement and courtesy visit to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Daisi Elemide, at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Wahab said the visit was meant to forge stronger working ties with lawmakers and to ensure that community realities are fully reflected in health-related legislation, budget planning and oversight.
He explained that WDCs serve as the closest link between communities and government, adding that their role in shaping primary health care policies remains crucial.
According to him, “The Ward Development Committee is the voice of the grassroots in the health sector. We provide real-time feedback on facilities, staffing, equipment and service gaps. No one understands the realities in each ward better than our members who serve there every day.”
Wahab appreciated the Assembly for its efforts in improving health governance in the state. He praised the Speaker for what he described as “responsive lawmaking and committed oversight,” adding that the Health Committee under the Assembly has continued to make significant contributions to strengthening PHC operations.
“We sincerely appreciate your leadership and the dedication this House has shown. Your oversight visits, legislative reviews and support for primary health reforms continue to bring hope to our health system,” he stated.
The WDC Chairman outlined key requests, including formal legislative recognition of WDC structures, inclusion in policy briefs and budget hearings, stronger collaboration with the House Committee on Health and improved budgetary allocations to PHCs.
He said, “We are asking for full inclusion. We want to work with you on joint monitoring of PHC projects, staffing issues and equipment procurement. We also seek better funding and legislative strengthening to improve infrastructure and expand healthcare access for the vulnerable.”
Wahab also listed several achievements of the WDC, which include collaborations with the Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board, the State Health Insurance Agency, development partners such as WHO and UNICEF, as well as community-based initiatives that have led to renovation of PHCs and increased health education.
While acknowledging the progress made, he also spoke on challenges confronting the Council. He mentioned inadequate funding for monitoring, dilapidated PHC structures in some communities, lack of legislative backing and limited tools for extensive community engagement.
Responding, Speaker Daisi Elemide commended the WDC for its commitment to community health and assured them of the Assembly’s readiness to work with the group.
Elemide said the Legislature will always support initiatives that bring development to the grassroots and improve the wellbeing of citizens.
“We value your work. The House understands the importance of community structures like the WDC in sustaining primary health care. Your input will continue to guide our decisions as we strengthen the health sector,” the Speaker said.
Elemide also assured that the Assembly would review the requests presented and explore legislative pathways that would improve PHC operations in the state.
“Be assured that your concerns are noted. We will look into areas requiring legislative action and work toward solutions that will serve all communities in Ogun State,” he added.
Wahab concluded by reaffirming the commitment of the WDC to work closely with lawmakers.
He said the Council is ready to support oversight visits, policy development and community mobilization in order to ensure a more responsive and equitable health system.
“We stand ready to partner with you to build a healthier and more prosperous Ogun State,” he said.
