History was made at the weekend in Lagos as the first and exclusive Health Radio Station in Nigeria, WASH FM 94.9 was commissioned.
The radio station transmitting on 94.9 FM and located at Olowora, Omole Phase 2 in Lagos will focus exclusively on health-related topics.
The launch of the specialized radio station at the weekend attracted important figures from the broadcast and health sectors.
In her welcome address at the launch, Prof. Ronke Ogunmakin, Founder of WASH FM 94.9, expressed happiness seeing her 25-year-old vision come to fruition.
She thanked her board members for their support, which helped in turning the dream into a reality.
Ogunmakin explained that the radio station aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and others that focused on health and access to information (SDG 3 and 16.10).
Prof. Ogunmakin emphasised the importance of health in people’s lives, adding “Health is a global issue. If you don’t have good health, you have nothing,” she said.
Furthermore, she highlighted the relevance of WASH FM during these times when the world faces numerous health challenges, including cancer.
“One of the station’s unique features is the incorporation of telemedicine into its programming. Health experts will share advice, and the station will provide information on where listeners can access medical care.”
Prof. Ogunmakin called on both government and private sectors to support the initiative, saying, “It’s important for the Nigerian community to have access to health information.”
Pastor Toba Akinmoladun, Chairman of Agape Health Ltd and the event’s chairman explained that the goal of WASH FM is to inform the public so they can make better decisions about their health.
“Ignorance is bad, and many problems occur because of it. Wash FM offers a great platform for everyone who cares about their health,” he said.
Ralph Akpan, the Regional Director of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Lagos Zone, welcomed the new development, noting that NBC is proud to have Nigeria’s first health radio station.
Chief Sulaimon Ogungbayi, the Baala of Olowora, expressed his excitement about having a health radio station in his community.
The highlights of the event included a studio tour and a live broadcast featuring special guests.
WASH FM 94.9 is set to be a vital source of health information and education, helping Nigerians make informed decisions about their well-being.