In response to the cholera outbreak affecting parts of the country, Dr. Temitope Glorious, Chairman of Ona-Ara Local Government Area, has launched a proactive initiative to protect his community.
The chlorination exercise and water quality testing across both private and public water sources aim to curb the spread of cholera and raise public health awareness.
The initiative was kicked off during a one-day sensitization workshop held at the Ilaji Resort International Mini Stadium.
The event gathered community leaders, market union representatives, schools, and religious and traditional institutions.
Expert speakers, including event organizer Engr Funmi Obisesan and the Council’s Director of Environmental Health Service and Disease Control Department, Sanitarium Popoola Rashidat, highlighted the significance of water testing, chlorination, and hygiene practices in preventing cholera.
Dr. Temitope Kolapo urged participants to spread the knowledge gained from the workshop throughout the community, stressing the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles and a clean environment.
He thanked Chief Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi for facilitating the event and applauded the Chief Executive Officer of Ilaji Hotels & Sports Resort for his dedication and support to the community.
In his address, Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi, CEO of Ilaji Hotels & Sports Resort and ICAST, commended the local government’s proactive measures against cholera. He praised the organizers, speakers, and participants for their commitment and emphasized the power of collective efforts and public-private partnerships in fostering positive change.
Sanusi urged attendees to share the acquired knowledge with their families, friends, and neighbors. Additionally, he called on the Chairman to expedite the construction of the ongoing Olorunsogo Akanran road, which is currently built from Olorunsogo to Olunloyo.
Furthermore, Sanusi lauded Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, for his leadership and support in combating the cholera outbreak. He acknowledged the governor’s efforts in providing necessary resources and infrastructure to prevent the disease’s spread and enhance public health awareness.
The workshop successfully heightened awareness and preventive measures against cholera. Participants were encouraged to establish clubs in their schools to educate peers about cholera prevention.
The event showcased Ona-Ara Local Government’s proactive steps in preventing cholera and promoting public health. The benefits of the exercise are substantial, emphasizing that information is vital and prevention is better than cure.
Participants were motivated to disseminate the knowledge to their neighbors and children. The environmental health team provided chlorine and water testing items, underscoring the importance of water treatment and hygiene practices.