Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Lagos State Government has announced a major upgrade to its emergency medical response system with plans to introduce motorcycle and water ambulances to reach areas often cut off by traffic or waterways.
Speaking at a media forum titled “LASAMBUS: Highlighting Impact, Improving and Sustaining Response” in Alausa, Ikeja on Monday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, said, “Emergency medical response is more than just transportation; it’s about stabilizing lives en route to definitive care.”
He urged residents to respect emergency protocols and stop vandalizing ambulances, noting that the new motorbike, boat, and helicopter services will help tackle delays caused by gridlock, poor location descriptions, and unhelpful crowds.
Residents who have benefited from LASAMBUS’ services gave emotional testimonies of how the state’s free ambulance network has saved lives at critical moments.
Mr. Rasheed Alao shared his experience with Africa Health Report (AHR), how LASAMBUS rescued his elder after a serious accident in Apapa, saying, “Their quick intervention was the life-line. We didn’t pay a kobo, yet we got professional service.”
Similarly, Omotayo Adeyinka, a Director in Education District I, recounted how LASAMBUS intervened when a boy went into a coma after being hit by her car: “The private hospital refused to treat him. LASAMBUS came, took over, stabilized him, and refused any money. I was amazed,” she said.
Dr. Ogboye highlighted the growth of LASAMBUS from four Peugeot wagons in 2001 to a fleet of 36 ambulances with advanced ICU capabilities, responding to over 8,900 emergencies in 2024 alone.
He credited Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s support with the system’s success and urged Lagosians to play their part.
“Ambulance teams are your allies. When you see an ambulance, give way—empty or not,” he appealed, while LASAMBUS Director Mrs. Beatrice Makinde added, “Every minute counts in emergency care. We need everyone to help us save lives.”
