UNICEF, Ondo Government Strengthen Fight Against Rising Lassa Fever Threat
Korede Abdullah 
AKURE, Nigeria – The United Nations Children’s Fund strengthens collaboration with the Ondo State Government to intensify prevention and awareness efforts against the growing threat of Lassa fever.
The renewed partnership forms the focus of discussions during a high-level visit by UNICEF officials to the state government in Akure on Thursday.
Speaking during the meeting on Thursday, UNICEF Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, warns that Lassa fever remains a serious public health concern across Nigeria.
“The prevalence of Lassa fever in the country remains a serious concern,” she says, stressing that UNICEF’s intervention prioritises public awareness on causes, prevention, and control.
She emphasises that sustained sensitisation campaigns are critical to reducing transmission, particularly in vulnerable communities where outbreaks persist.
In response, Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, commends UNICEF’s long-standing partnership, describing the agency as a key ally in health communication.
He pledges the state government’s continued support for public health campaigns and commits to expanding outreach efforts to ensure broader community awareness.
Ajanaku notes that the government has maintained a proactive response to reported cases, supported by established health protocols across facilities.
He also praises the Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka, for sustaining effective disease management strategies.
Both parties reaffirm their commitment to strengthening collaboration in health communication and community engagement as part of efforts to curb the spread of Lassa fever.
Health experts say coordinated interventions between government and development partners remain essential to controlling recurring outbreaks and protecting at-risk populations.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Otamere Gladness 