A former chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Kwara State, Dr. Ola Ahmed has provided free healthcare services to about 500 indigent residents in Ilorin
The service is part of the activities lined up for his birthday celebration and to improve public healthcare.
The two-day outreach featured medical and surgical screenings, consultations, free eye tests, and the distribution of eyeglasses and essential drugs.
It also engaged youths in sports and sensitisation on drug abuse, sexual, and reproductive health.
Speaking during the outreach, Dr. Ahmed, who is also the Principal Medical Officer, said *the initiative was his way of giving back to society and supporting government efforts to improve public health.*
He highlighted challenges facing the healthcare system, including inadequate funding, ignorance, and the “Japa” syndrome — the increasing emigration of healthcare workers seeking better opportunities abroad.
“This, allows doctors to diagnose and offer free treatment,” he said.
Dr. Ahmed noted that the elderly, women, and children were among the beneficiaries.
He called on well-meaning Nigerians to support similar initiatives and invest in community health schemes such as subsidised health insurance.
“We can also support education by paying school fees, offering scholarships, and providing textbooks. Many people are suffering in silence and need help,” he added.
Also speaking, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Ayishat Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Dr. Salau Hafiz said patients were screened for malaria, blood sugar, and blood pressure, with many receiving eyeglasses for vision problems.
He listed common ailments diagnosed during the outreach to include hypertension, diabetes, malaria, and respiratory infections.
The Deputy Director at the Kwara Ministry of Health, Dr. Kudirat Lambe said participating in the outreach brought a sense of fulfilment, describing it as a way to give back to the community that raised them.
A beneficiary, Alhaja Adijat Nuru, said the outreach made healthcare accessible to her, praising the initiative and appealing for similar programmes across the country.
Also, Community Leader Alhaji Yusuf Saliu commended Dr. Ahmed for his consistent compassion and urged others to emulate his example.
He added that every act of kindness would be rewarded by God.
NAN/ Shakirat Sadiq
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