By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A paediatric centre in Lagos built in 1956, Agbala Pediatric Centre, which had earlier looked dilapidated, is now wearing a new look thanks to the intervention of Ecobank Nigeria.
The decision of the lender to renovate the health facility has been commended by the Lagos State government.
Agbala Pediatric Centre in Ikorodu area of Lagos State has contributed in no small way to maternal healthcare in the state.
Ecobank Nigeria, which transformed the centre, said it was part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) effort directed at women and children.
Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Mr Charles Kie, explained that the renovation of Agbala Pediatric Centre by the bank was a promise kept as part of a weeklong environmental sustainability campaign in line with the business mantra of Ecobank, which is to build a world class Pan African bank and contribute to the economic development and financial integration of Africa.
According to Mr Kie, the guiding principle for corporate social responsibility activities by the bank is to give back and contribute effectively to the communities in which it operates.
In his words “Ecobank is a responsible and caring corporate citizen, assisting people and underprivileged groups to enhance their lives. We also encourage creativity and excellence among Africans, especially the young people, who we see as the future of our continent.”
He said the vision of the Agbala project revolves around the need to create a conducive healthcare environment for the most vulnerable amongst us – women and children.
He added that the bank’s gesture was also a far-reaching compensation to the healthcare providers at the centre for their endless years of unflinching support to the sustenance of an endearing society.
In his remarks, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Mr Jide Idris, who was represented by Chairman, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr Bayo Aderiye, said the contribution by Ecobank will go a long way in resuscitating healthcare delivery at the centre.
He mentioned that the children’s paediatric centre, which is a strategic health facility for residents in Ikorodu and environs, had long desired this facelift.
Mr Aderiye used the opportunity to call on other corporate bodies to support the government in enhancing strategic public facilities that have direct impact on the people.
