Expert advices Nigerians on regular medical check-ups

The Managing Director (MD) of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, has urged Nigerians to inculcate the habit of going for routine medical check-ups to ensure quick responses to medical issues.

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Ali, represented by the Agency’s Editor-in-Chief, Mr Ephraims Sheyin, made the call in Kaduna during the unveiling of a foundation in memory of the late Hassana Yakubu, an editorial staff of NAN, who died of cancer in 2023.

The foundation named “Hassy’s Haven Foundation,” was founded by the deceased ‘s twin sister, Hussaina Yakubu, also an editorial staff of the Agency in Kaduna.

Ali said that routine medical check-ups were not supposed to be taken for granted.

According to the NAN boss, there are certain illnesses that could be tackled permanently, if only known on time.

He also listed trekking, drinking water adequately and eating a balanced diet as measures that could facilitate healthy living.

Speaking on education which formed one of the foundation’s programmes, the MD said it was a good initiative that would empower individuals to build sustainable future.

He commended Hussaina for the commitment and loyalty to her late twin sister throughout her struggle in fighting the disease, which eventually took her life.

He made a donation of money to the foundation’s coffers, while assuring her of NAN’s support in the coverage of all the foundation’s activities.

Also, the Controller General of Customs, Mr Bashir Adeniyi, assured of his support and dedication to the cause of the initiative.

Adeniyi, represented by the Comptroller, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘B’ Kaduna, Mr Chedi Wada, said the foundation symbolises hope, resilience and the unwavering spirit of those who are fighting cancer.

“It will serve as a haven, a place where these young women can find solace, support, and the care they deserve.

“It is through our collective efforts that we can truly make a lasting impact.

”I urge you all to open your hearts and minds and join hands with Hassy’s Haven foundation; together, let us create a community of care, compassion, and transformation.

“We should also support such initiatives; it is part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Nigeria Customs Service to engage in relevant issues that are of value addition to the citizens of the country,” he said.

Earlier, the founder of the foundation, Hussaina, had said that she was inspired by her late twin sister, who battled cancer of the throat for eight years.

The twin sister, who spoke emotionally, added that experiencing the struggles, pains, and challenges associated with the disease was terrifying.

She, therefore, said the foundation was established in her late twin sister’s memory to support those facing similar battles.

She said, “The foundation aims to provide hope, resilience, and ensure that no one faces challenges alone.

“Hassy’s Haven Foundation will serve as a gentle tribute to late Hassana, seeking to preserve her memory.

“It signifies a comforting haven for orphans, less privileged girls, and widows.”