Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Edo State, Nigeria
In a proactive move to bolster its emergency response infrastructure, the Edo State Government has proudly conferred graduation certificates upon the second cohort of 42 newly trained community-based first responders.
This significant step underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to fortifying the state’s capacity for swift and effective emergency assistance.
The ceremony, held at the esteemed John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in the heart of Benin City, saw the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Ali, personally present the certificates to the deserving graduates. Dr. Ali emphasized the vital role these responders will play in administering crucial first aid and care to individuals within their respective communities, bridging the critical gap before professional medical assistance arrives.
“This initiative epitomizes Governor Godwin Obaseki’s dedication to revitalizing our health sector for superior service delivery,” Dr. Ali elucidated. “As part of this ongoing endeavor, we are proud to honor and equip these 42 community-based first responders, constituting the second wave of recipients, with their well-deserved certificates.”
Speaking in support of this laudable initiative, Prof. Patricia Ukagwes, the Provost of the Edo School of Nursing, hailed Governor Obaseki’s foresight, affirming that the state wholeheartedly embraces this progressive approach to emergency preparedness and care provision.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to Governor Obaseki for spearheading Edo’s integration into this essential training framework,” Prof. Ukagwes expressed. “Empowering first responders to administer timely aid before professional intervention is not just commendable but indispensable. This initiative marks a significant stride forward.”
Addressing the graduates, Prof. Ukagwes emphasized the distinction between their roles as first aiders and caregivers, urging them to approach their duties with diligence and humility, acknowledging their vital position within the emergency response hierarchy.
The graduands, in turn, voiced their gratitude to the Edo State Government for the invaluable training opportunity bestowed upon them. Promising to uphold their responsibilities with dedication and integrity, they pledged to serve their communities with unwavering commitment.
This latest cohort of graduates brings the total number of community-based first responders trained and certified by the state government to an impressive 180 individuals. Building upon the foundation laid by the inaugural batch, who completed their training in February 2023, these newly minted responders stand poised to make a tangible difference in safeguarding the health and well-being of their fellow citizens.