Kwara State Government says it targets about 9,000 people in its 2024 annual free medico-surgical outreach to all the 16 local government areas of the state.
Speaking with the Tribune on Thursday in Ilorin, the state Health Commissioner, Dr. Amina El-Imam, said that a total number of 7,500 people benefitted from the free medico-surgical outreach last year.
She said that the first stop will be KWASUTH in Ilorin West Local Government Area on Thursday, June 6, 2024.
The commissioner, who said that the initiative aimed to bring vital medical services to the doorstep of the least privileged members of society, added that it would break down barriers to healthcare access and create a healthier and more inclusive society for all.
Dr El-Imam, who said that the medical treatments would include eye surgeries, hernia surgeries, etc., added that the government hoped to reach more of the people of Kwara state this year.
“This annual initiative underscores our commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic status, has access to quality healthcare,” she said.
“Throughout the state, medical consultations, eye screenings, and surgeries will be offered to those in need. This is not just about addressing immediate healthcare needs; it’s about restoring hope and dignity to those who often find themselves marginalized and overlooked”.
Dr. El-Imam urged all members of the community to avail themselves of the opportunity, adding, “Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals will provide compassionate care and support every step of the way”.
She commended Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his commitment to providing Universal Health Coverage to the people of Kwara and urged the people to seize the opportunity to tell one another that free health is coming to all the 16 local governments in Kwara.
In a related development, the commissioner disclosed that over 200,000 HPV vaccine doses are available at all state facilities across the state to protect young girls against cancer.
She urged parents and guardians to make their wards between the ages of 9 and 13 available for the opportunity, explaining that the vaccine is free and effective for cervical cancer prevention.
“HPV vaccine is our arsenal if we want to attack cervical cancer among our women, which is third most common cancer among women of 15-44 years of age”, she said.
She said that Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has also approved state state-wide screening programme for cancer, especially cervical cancer in October 2024.
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE