WDCs key to grassroots health reforms, says Oyo commissioner

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, has called for increased participation of the Ward Development Committee (WDC) to strengthen primary healthcare services and enhance community ownership of health delivery at the grassroots.

Dr Ajetunmobi made the call at the quarterly rotational WDC meeting held with representatives from the 33 local government WDC chairmen and members at the Ibadan South-West Local Government Secretariat.

She acknowledged the WDC’s efforts so far but urged them to intensify their activities at primary healthcare centres. She stressed the need for increased awareness about health-related issues and encouraged members to report any challenges they observe to the appropriate health authorities.

The Commissioner highlighted the upcoming treated net distribution campaign scheduled for August 1st to 7th, urging WDC members to educate communities about the proper use of mosquito nets to prevent malaria.

She emphasized that as health ambassadors, the WDCs should provide feedback on community health situations to help shape policy decisions and guide intervention strategies.

Chairman of the Oyo State Primary Healthcare Board, Honourable Awoleye Dada, noted that the recent appointment of eight permanent secretaries for health districts was aimed at improving healthcare oversight but added that feedback from PHCs remains essential.

State Chairman of the Ward Development Committee, Alhaji (Chief) Abdulfatah Oloyede, charged ward chairmen to ensure proper monitoring of facility funds and drug distribution, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability.

Earlier, Chairman of Ibadan South-West Local Government, Honourable Kehinde Akande, commended the state government for prioritising health and encouraged WDCs to remain committed to improving community wellbeing.