In a groundbreaking move to improve patient care and comfort, the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) has officially launched operations at its Patient Attendants’ Quarters a dedicated accommodation for relatives of hospitalized patients.
A Game-Changer in Nigerian Healthcare
For years, family members of patients admitted to public hospitals have endured sleepless nights on uncomfortable chairs, in their cars, or even outdoors, battling exhaustion and mosquitoes. LASUTH has changed the narrative by becoming the first public hospital in Nigeria to provide a fully equipped 26-bed facility designed exclusively for patient attendants. The quarters, which officially opened on February 12, 2025, feature separate male and female wing each with 13 beds, ensuring privacy, cleanliness, and comfort. The goal is simple: to provide a safe and conducive environment where caregivers can rest and stay close to their loved ones without unnecessary hardship.
A Vision Realized Through Dedication and Partnership
Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Ogochukwu Caroline Chukwurah, the Facility Manager, highlighted the importance of the project and commended the leadership of Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, LASUTH’s Chief Medical Director (CMD), alongside other stakeholders who brought the vision to life. Prof. Fabamwo noted that while LASUTH had long envisioned such a facility, initial efforts to establish it through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) fell through. Fortunately, the Rotary Club of Ikeja GRA stepped in, generously donating the building that now serves as the Patient Attendants’ Quarters. Although the building was commissioned earlier, LASUTH took additional time to finalize operational logistics before quietly opening its doors about 10 days before the official launch.
The response? Overwhelmingly positive!
The facility has already witnessed impressive patronage, proving its necessity. Relieving the Burden on Families Prof. Fabamwo emphasized that this initiative aligns with LASUTH’s commitment to patient-centered care, ensuring that relatives no longer have to endure uncomfortable conditions while providing emotional support to their loved ones. “Many of our patient attendants have been forced to sleep in cars, on benches, or in hospital corridors.
This quarters ensures they have a proper place to rest and recharge,” he said. Government and Stakeholders Applaud LASUTHThe initiative has received high praise from government officials and healthcare leaders. Representing Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Mrs. Sarah Balogun commended Prof. Fabamwo’s leadership, stressing the importance of continuous maintenance and improvement of the facility. Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health lauded LASUTH’s rapid transformation, calling it a model for other institutions to follow. Similarly, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, congratulated LASUTH for its ongoing efforts in infrastructure development and healthcare innovation.
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More Developments on the Horizon
Prof. Adebowale O. Adekoya, LASUTH’s Director of Clinical Services and Training, took the opportunity to highlight other upcoming projects within the hospital. He revealed plans for the inauguration of a cutting-edge Institute of Fertility Medicine, alongside other major initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare services in Lagos State. A Bold Step Towards Inclusive Healthcare The launch of the Patient Attendants’ Quarters represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s public healthcare system.
By prioritizing the well-being of patient relatives
LASUTH is setting a new gold standard for holistic hospital care.With key figures like Mr. Babatunde Jelili Oyekan (Director of Hospital Administration & Human Resources), Mrs. Titilope Alaka (Director of Finance & Accounts), Mrs. Adebola Aina (Director of Nursing Services), and many others present at the launch, it’s clear that LASUTH is committed to making lasting changes in healthcare delivery.As Nigeria’s first public hospital to introduce a dedicated lodge for patient attendants, LASUTH is leading by example, proving that compassion and innovation can go hand in hand in the healthcare sector.
