NaijAidUK, under its HealthAid charity initiative, has reportedly trained more than 8,000 healthcare professionals and members of the public in essential first aid and emergency response skills over the last ten years. The organization celebrated its 10th anniversary with a four-day specialized training program in Lagos aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness in Nigeria.
The training took place from October 27 to 30, 2026, and focused on equipping healthcare workers, students, and the public with practical skills for addressing medical emergencies and mental health challenges. The program included Immediate Life Support (ILS) training for clinicians, mental health awareness training, and two days of general first emergency response training.
Dr. Lanre Nehan-Babalola, CEO and Founding Trustee of NaijAidUK, emphasized the organization’s dedication to building a network of trained individuals capable of responding to emergencies and imparting life-saving knowledge to others. The train-the-trainer format aims to create a multiplier effect, empowering participants to educate families, schools, and communities.
Nehan-Babalola stated that the initiative focuses on instilling a culture of emergency response, underscoring that knowing the appropriate actions can be life-saving. She also highlighted the importance of incorporating both physical and mental health considerations into emergency preparedness training.
Stakeholders from the health sector have commended the program. Omowunmi Folashade Ekong, Director of Nursing at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, called the training a critical intervention for enhancing community support and awareness. She noted that participants would benefit not only themselves but also their families and workplaces.
Dr. Festus Adetonwa, representing the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, recognized the significance of addressing both mental health and first aid, emphasizing the need for equipping ordinary citizens with skills to provide immediate assistance in emergencies. He reinforced the necessity for campaigns against mental health stigma to encourage individuals seeking help.
NaijAidUK was established in 2015 and has engaged in various initiatives, including providing medical equipment and professional development for healthcare workers. Their training programs adhere to World Health Organization guidelines and local best practices, aiming to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
During the anniversary event, the Executive Chairman of Ose Local Government Area, Clement Kolapo Ojo, underscored the importance of collaboration among governmental and community entities to widen access to life-saving knowledge. Moving forward, NaijAidUK seeks to strengthen partnerships with government bodies, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and community stakeholders to enhance the reach of first aid and mental health education across the nation.
