Daud Olatunji
In a bid to promote healthcare awareness and provide much-needed medical services to the underprivileged, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Wednesday, held a free medical outreach for the public in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.
The outreach, which took place at the Centenary Hall,Ake,Abeokuta precedes NARD’s 44th Annual General Meeting, marking a longstanding tradition of the association.
NARD National President, Dr. Dele Abdulahi, highlighted that the outreach is a key part of NARD’s commitment to giving back to the communities that have supported the association’s members.
According to Abdulahi, the initiative is no longer just a tradition but has evolved into a registered nongovernmental organisation aimed at extending free healthcare services to the public.
“This is our way of giving back to the community. Initially, it was a tradition tied to our general meeting, but now it is a registered NGO.
“We are here to provide free healthcare, especially to the indigent in the community. We are also making donations to orphanages in Sagamu and other areas to expand our impact,” he said.
Abdulahi emphasized the need to target Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations, many of whom are not only health illiterate but also lack the financial means to access basic medical care.
“A healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” he added, stressing the importance of such interventions in fostering a healthier society.
Dr. Zenith Osundara, the NARD Crown Prince, further explained that the outreach program involved diagnosing patients, prescribing medications, and referring those with more serious health conditions to appropriate medical facilities.
He also acknowledged the Ogun State Government’s support in providing ambulances for emergency cases and praised the Alake of Egbaland Oba Adedotun Gbadebo for his support.
However, Dr. Osundara also addressed concerns about the competence of Nigerian doctors, noting that the overwhelming challenges within the healthcare system often hinder their performance.
“The system is not helping. Doctors are trying to adjust in this chaotic environment, dealing with emotional and mental stress, but they are committed to delivering service despite the unfavorable conditions,” Zenith remarked.
Representing the Alake of Egbaland, Chief Abayomi Rotimi praised NARD’s efforts, describing the free medical outreach as a timely intervention for many Nigerians who cannot afford the high cost of medical care.
He also proposed that NARD should consider organizing regional outreach programs to ensure that more Nigerians benefit from the initiative.
“If this remains regional, it might take another three or four years before this kind of outreach returns to Abeokuta.
“ I have advised them to make it an annual event to bring healthcare closer to the people,” Chief Rotimi suggested.
Among the numerous beneficiaries of the outreach were Wasiu Okikiola and Elizabeth Funmilayo, who both received free medical consultations and medications.
Okikiola, who had been experiencing severe back pain, expressed relief after receiving treatment, while Funmilayo, who had been struggling with insomnia, was also given medication and prescriptions.
Mrs. Atuokwu Chika, diagnosed with high blood pressure, lauded the outreach as a significant relief for those who cannot afford healthcare services.
“The cost of medical care is overwhelming for many of us. This outreach is a blessing, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be tested and treated,” said Mrs. Chika.
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