By Rosemary Okoduwa
The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in collaboration with the Braimoh Empowerment Foundation and the Healthcare and Support Initiatives (NCSI), Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, has organised a one-day free medical outreach to improve access to healthcare services for residents.
The outreach, held at the Edo State Secretariat premises in Benin City, offered free screening for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, malaria, tuberculosis, high blood pressure and other health conditions, alongside medical consultations and the provision of essential medications to beneficiaries.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, said the initiative was designed to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on families, particularly women, children and other vulnerable members of society who may struggle to afford medical services.
Hon. Abdallah described the exercise as the first medical outreach organised under her leadership as Commissioner, noting that it aligned with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, particularly its commitment to improving the health and well-being of Edo residents. She urged residents to take advantage of the free services and encouraged traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads, women and youth groups to mobilise their communities for future health programmes.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the medical personnel, partner organisations and other stakeholders whose contributions made the outreach possible. She emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration in ensuring that essential healthcare services reach more people, especially those in underserved communities.
Speaking on behalf of the Braimoh Empowerment Foundation, Mr. Felix Ahmed Braimoh said the foundation was established in memory of his late father, Braimoh Musa Aidorolo. He explained that the outreach, organised in partnership with the Ministry and other stakeholders with the Governor’s approval, was aimed at bringing essential healthcare services closer to residents.
Mr. Braimoh disclosed that the exercise featured professional doctors, laboratory scientists and technicians who provided medical assessments and other services. He added that beneficiaries received free medications, including those requiring treatment for abnormal blood pressure, while samples would be collected for tuberculosis testing, with follow-up care arranged for individuals whose results required further attention.
In her remarks, Rev. Sister Augustina Okoroafor, speaking on behalf of NCSI, commended the Ministry and its partners for the initiative, stressing the importance of preventive healthcare, early detection of diseases and cooperation among government agencies, faith-based organisations and other stakeholders in building healthier communities.
The Commissioner, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, formally flagged off the outreach by undergoing medical checks. The initiative highlights the importance of regular health screening and reflects ongoing efforts by the Edo State Government and its partners to promote accessible healthcare, encourage early diagnosis and improve the overall well-being of residents.
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