LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- A new boat ambulance donated by UNICEF is set to change emergency healthcare delivery for isolated riverine communities in Ogun State, offering faster lifesaving responses where geography has long delayed medical help.
In a move aimed at closing critical healthcare gaps, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has donated a boat ambulance to Ogun State to improve emergency medical response across hard-to-reach riverine and coastal communities. The intervention targets long-standing barriers that have limited timely access to care for vulnerable populations.
The boat ambulance was inaugurated on Thursday at Makun-Omi in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, a region where waterways remain the primary means of transportation.
Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, described the donation as a practical solution to the state’s challenging terrain.
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“The challenges of water transportation and remote locations have long hindered access to timely medical care in our riverine communities. This ambulance boat will provide swift response during medical emergencies, reducing avoidable deaths and improving maternal and child health outcomes,” Coker said.
She explained that the donation complements Governor Dapo Abiodun’s healthcare reforms, which prioritize stronger primary healthcare systems, better emergency response mechanisms, and improved referral services for residents in isolated settlements.
“This is a strategic investment that will deepen the impact of the governor’s primary healthcare initiatives and improve the referral system for patients in isolated areas,” she added.
At the local level, the initiative was welcomed as a milestone. The Chairman of Ogun Waterside Local Government, Adetoye Odunoiki, represented by Olabode Ogunlana, said the boat ambulance reflects growing collaboration between government authorities and development partners.
“This boat ambulance will enhance transportation for pregnant women, children, and other residents across riverine and coastal communities, ensuring timely access to quality healthcare services. It will also strengthen emergency response, reduce delays, and improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery in our communities,” Ogunlana said.
Community leaders echoed similar optimism. Speaking on behalf of host communities, Mrs Aderonke Adekunmisi, said the ambulance would significantly improve access to care for pregnant women, older persons, and other at-risk groups. She also called on residents to take ownership of the project to ensure proper use and maintenance.
From UNICEF’s perspective, the donation is part of a broader commitment to maternal and child health in Nigeria. According to the Vaccine Supply and Logistics Consultant for UNICEF, Mrs Florence Moloku, the boat ambulance would serve multiple functions beyond emergency transport.
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“UNICEF remains committed to supporting quality health services for children and mothers in Nigeria. We encourage local authorities and communities to maintain this vital asset so that it continues to serve those who need it most,” Moloku said.
Health specialists point out that riverine communities across Nigeria often experience dangerous delays in medical care due to poor infrastructure and difficult geography. Interventions such as boat ambulances have been shown to reduce maternal and child mortality while strengthening overall health system responsiveness.
The Ogun initiative highlights how targeted investments can bridge inequality in healthcare access, bringing critical services closer to communities that have historically been left at the margins of emergency care delivery.
