The Lagos State Government, through Health District III, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the health and well-being of students across the state through its Quarterly School Health Programme.
Eko Hot News reports that the government made the commitment during a recent health outreach held at Falomo High School, Ikoyi, where students received free medical screenings and health education aimed at encouraging healthy living.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, said the initiative is designed to help students grow into healthy, productive adults who will contribute positively to the development of Lagos State and Nigeria.
She explained that the programme enables healthcare professionals to identify health challenges early and provide timely support, ensuring that students remain healthy enough to excel academically.
According to Dr. Adeleke, education and health go hand in hand, stressing that students can only achieve their full potential when they are physically and mentally fit.
She noted that the quarterly exercise goes beyond routine medical checks, as it is designed to encourage healthy lifestyles and create awareness about disease prevention among schoolchildren.
Dr. Adeleke clarified that the initiative is a free healthcare programme and not a vaccination exercise, adding that teachers also benefit from the screenings because a healthy school community contributes to a healthier society.
She encouraged students to seek help whenever they experience health or personal challenges by speaking with their parents, teachers, guidance counsellors, or healthcare professionals.
The Permanent Secretary also advised students to stay away from drug abuse and other harmful habits that could affect their health, education, and future aspirations.
During the health talk, Dr. Adeleke shared practical tips for maintaining good health. She encouraged students to eat balanced meals rich in fruits and vegetables, drink enough clean water, and maintain proper personal hygiene.
She also advised them to brush their teeth at least twice daily, engage in regular physical activities through sports and games, and get adequate sleep to support their physical and mental development.
Dr. Adeleke urged students to cooperate fully with healthcare workers during health screenings by asking questions and following professional advice that would help them make informed health decisions.
She stressed that adopting healthy habits from an early age remains one of the most effective ways to prevent illnesses and improve overall quality of life.
The Quarterly School Health Programme forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader efforts to improve public health and strengthen preventive healthcare services within schools.
Health experts believe that regular medical screenings help detect vision problems, dental conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and other health concerns before they become more serious.
The initiative also provides an opportunity to educate students on healthy living, personal hygiene, nutrition, mental wellness, and disease prevention.
School administrators welcomed the programme and praised the Lagos State Government for sustaining free healthcare interventions for students across public schools.
The Principal of Falomo Senior High School, Mr. Paul Omo-Aibangbee, expressed appreciation to the government for bringing quality healthcare services directly to students.
He noted that some students experience challenges relating to eyesight and dental health, making the free medical screenings especially beneficial for early diagnosis and intervention.
The principal also appealed to parents and guardians to encourage their children to participate fully in future health programmes organised by the government.
According to him, early medical attention can significantly improve students’ well-being and academic performance while reducing long-term health complications.
Stakeholders at the programme commended Health District III for maintaining a consistent schedule of school-based health interventions that support both learning and student welfare.
The Lagos State Government continues to prioritise preventive healthcare through initiatives that improve access to quality medical services for children and adolescents.
Officials said the Quarterly School Health Programme remains an important component of the state’s commitment to building healthier schools and nurturing a generation of confident, healthy, and successful young people.
As the initiative continues across Lagos, the government reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen healthcare delivery in schools while encouraging students to adopt healthy lifestyles that will benefit them throughout their lives.
