HEFAMAA Intensifies War Against Quackery Among Health Facilities In Eti- Osa

Lagos State Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency Photo Credit : X

The Lagos State Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) has intensified its campaign against quackery and unlicensed medical practice with a renewed sensitisation drive and town hall meeting held in Eti-Osa Local Government Area. The event, organised in collaboration with the World Bank and the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project, aimed to strengthen stakeholder engagement and promote public awareness about safe healthcare practices.

Speaking at the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of HEFAMAA, Dr. Abiola Idowu, represented by Mrs. Oladunni Omonike, Deputy Director of Health Education, reiterated the Agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health through continuous monitoring, accreditation, and regulation of health facilities across Lagos State. She explained that HEFAMAA, established in 2006 under the Health Sector Reform Law, was created to ensure that all health facilities operate within approved standards, are properly staffed, and provide quality healthcare services.

Dr. Idowu clarified that the purpose of the Agency’s regulatory activities is not to shut down health facilities unnecessarily but to protect Lagosians from unsafe and unethical medical practices. She noted that the town hall meeting forms part of HEFAMAA’s broader efforts to foster collaboration and dispel misconceptions surrounding its operations.

According to her, open dialogue and constructive partnerships remain key to achieving safer and more transparent healthcare delivery across the state.

In his presentation, Mr. Richard Olusanya, Chief Nutrition Officer at HEFAMAA, highlighted the importance of regular registration and inspection of all health facilities operating in Lagos. He revealed that the Agency has introduced a Quick Response (QR) Code verification system that enables residents to confirm the accreditation status of healthcare facilities in real time.

This innovation, he said, promotes accountability and empowers the public to make informed decisions about where to access medical care.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Job Lawson, Chairman of the State Monitoring Committee (SMC), urged stronger collaboration between HEFAMAA and faith-based organisations to tackle the rise of unqualified individuals providing medical treatment under the guise of spiritual healing. He cautioned that such practices often lead to preventable harm and encouraged religious leaders to guide their members toward accredited healthcare facilities. Dr. Idowu reaffirmed HEFAMAA’s dedication to promoting transparency, accountability, and excellence in the health sector as part of efforts to build a safer and healthier Lagos for all.