No fewer than 1,000 residents of Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State have benefited from a free medical outreach facilitated by the Deputy Chief Whip of the Ogun State House of Assembly and member representing the constituency, Babatunde Tella.
The outreach, which provided comprehensive medical services, attracted residents seeking treatment and health screenings.
The gesture was in collaboration with Mercy Said No Foundation, Royal Wellness International, and IFEMED Alumni, alongside a team of medical volunteers from the United States
Speaking during the programme on Friday at Isaga-Orile area of the local government , the lawmaker disclosed that the initiative was designed to cater for a wide range of health needs, with expectations of over 1,000 beneficiaries.
“We are expecting more than 1,000 beneficiaries. We brought dentists, medical doctors and eye specialists. Those we cannot treat here will be referred to Abeokuta for surgeries, especially hernia cases. This programme is all-encompassing,” he said.
Tella expressed gratitude to international partners from the United States for supporting the humanitarian effort, noting that the outreach forms part of his broader constituency development agenda.
“We started with empowerment for about 350 constituents, giving them tools and financial support. We have also commissioned 16 boreholes across our wards. This is another step in meeting the health needs of our people because health is wealth,” he added.
The lawmaker emphasized that the programme was driven by a commitment to improve the wellbeing of residents rather than publicity.
“If people are wealthy without good health, they cannot enjoy their wealth. For me, it is about meeting the needs of the people. Seeing the appreciation and prayers from beneficiaries is very fulfilling,” he said, promising to make the outreach an annual event with the support of partners.
Also speaking, the representatives of Royal Wellness International Tinuke Fawole said the outreach helps uncover hidden health conditions among residents.
“Many people live with high blood pressure and diabetes without knowing. Here, we test them, provide medication and guide them on follow-up care,” she explained.
Similarly, Mrs. Mide Lawson of Mercy Said No Foundation said the group has conducted medical missions for 14 years. “The experience is phenomenal. Collaboration is key because no single organisation can do this alone,” she said.
The Leader of the Abeokuta North Legislative Arm, Hon. Moruf Erubami, described the outreach as a model for others to emulate.
“This initiative is especially beneficial to the less privileged who cannot afford quality healthcare. If more people do this, we will reduce health challenges in our communities,” he said.
Beneficiaries also expressed appreciation for the intervention. One of them, Nurudeen Olowookere, said the medical checks had improved his health. Another beneficiary, Ajibade Olapeju, said she received eye care, dental treatment and medications.
“Doctors attended to us promptly and I even received glasses. I urge philanthropists to emulate this gesture, especially for elderly people who cannot afford hospital bills,” she said.
