World Stroke Day: Dr. Fagbemi Unveils New Health Initiatives to Strengthen Stroke Prevention in Oyo State

…The healthcare reform advocate highlights plans to train workers, equip facilities, and raise awareness on stroke prevention across the state.

Oyo State has joined the rest of the world yesterday to commemorate World Stroke Day 2025, themed “Act Now, Prevent Stroke, Save Lives.”

The annual event, observed on October 29, raises global awareness about stroke prevention, causes, and early intervention, while promoting better brain health.

The program of the celebration World Stroke International Day was organized by Ring Road State Hospital, led by Dr. Margarette Allen Tailor and Dr. Morufat Odetunde, held at the hospital premises.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Akin Fagbemi commended the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde for his sustained efforts toward achieving a sustainable healthcare delivery system in the state.

He praised the governor’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the well-being of Oyo residents.

“Governor Makinde’s dedication to strengthening our health system is commendable.

His vision for a healthier Oyo State continues to inspire our collective drive toward better service delivery,” Dr. Fagbemi stated.

As part of ongoing healthcare improvement initiatives, Dr. Fagbemi announced plans for capacity-building programs for healthcare workers across the state.

The training aims to equip medical staff with the skills and compassion necessary to provide quality patient care.

He further revealed plans to provide additional physiotherapy equipment to support the recovery of stroke patients.

The initiative, he said, would enhance rehabilitation and improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.

Emphasizing the importance of prevention, Dr. Fagbemi urged the public to adopt healthy lifestyles through:

Regular blood pressure checks, Healthy eating habits, Routine physical activity, Effective stress management, Adequate sleep.

He also highlighted the World Stroke Organization’s (WSO) “B.E.F.A.S.T.” method for recognizing stroke symptoms — Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech, and Time, stressing that early action can save lives.

Dr. Fagbemi extended appreciation to the Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Anifat Ibraheem, for her leadership in organizing the state’s inaugural World Stroke Day event.

“We appreciate your dedication to improving healthcare services and for creating a platform to discuss stroke prevention and management,” he said.

He also acknowledged the event’s guest speakers, Prof. Adebayo of the University College Hospital (UCH) and Dr. Olusola of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), for their enlightening presentations on stroke prevention and management.

“Your insights have deepened our understanding of stroke care and will leave a lasting impact on our audience,” Dr. Fagbemi added.

The event concluded with a call to action for residents to take proactive steps in preventing stroke and promoting overall brain health.