Chinedum Elekwachi
National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Anambra State has organized a free medical care for residents of Enugu-Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area of the state.
This aligns with its unwavering commitment to improving health care outcomes in the rural communities of the state.
The second quarter edition of the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) took place at the Enugwu-Ukwu Civic Centre.
On the occasion, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs Pauline Ojisua, described the HIRD programme as a flagship intervention aimed at bridging the healthcare gap between urban and rural communities.
“The HIRD programme is a proud expression of the NYSC’s dedication to bringing accessible, quality healthcare to underserved populations.
“Through the tireless efforts of our Corps medical personnel, this initiative delivers free medical care.
“It also offers health education and disease prevention outreach to rural communities.”
Significant impacts across state
The coordinator highlighted that the programme has already made significant impacts across the state by addressing prevalent health issues such as malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and maternal and child wellness.
“Today’s outreach in Enugwu-Ukwu is part of a broader effort to promote healthier living and greater health awareness among rural dwellers.
She further emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare, encouraging communities to adopt healthy lifestyle practices such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, hygiene, adequate hydration, and routine health screenings.
“These practices are key to long-term well-being and must be adopted as part of everyday life,” she added.
“The HIRD programme is now in its second quarter of implementation having started from Alor Idemili South.
“It continues to serve as a model for public health engagement, combining volunteerism, community participation, and inter-agency collaboration to uplift some of the most vulnerable populations in the state.
The State Coordinator called on individuals, organizations, and government agencies contribute towards sustaining and expanding the initiative.
“By improving the health of our rural dwellers, we uplift families, strengthen communities, and build a more resilient Nigeria.”
“With this latest edition successfully executed, the NYSC Anambra State has yet again proven that even in remote corners of the country, no one should be left behind when it comes to access to quality healthcare.”
Community lauds initiative
Enugwu-Ukwu community applauded the medical intervention including representatives of the traditional authority, community leaders, and beneficiaries of the programme.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Joel Okafor, who represented traditional ruler of Enugwu-Ukwu, Igwe Sir Ralph Ekpeh, appreciated gratitude to NYSC for choosing the community for the impactful outreach.
“We are truly grateful for this gesture. Our people have long faced challenges accessing basic healthcare services.
“Today, we witnessed selfless service from young Nigerian professionals who came here not for profit, but for purpose,” Okafor said.
He assured Enugwu-Ukwu’s continued support urging both government and private sector partners to invest more in rural health development.
