No fewer than 200 residents of Jakande Estate in Isolo, Lagos, have benefited from a free medical outreach organised by the Okeoghene Samuel Eterigho Sickle Cell Awareness Foundation.
The one-day outreach was aimed at addressing the lack of access to basic healthcare services in low-income communities.
Held at Our Saviour’s Anglican Church, the initiative catered to mostly elderly, youth, and middle-aged individuals, who received essential medical services including blood pressure checks, blood sugar and genotype testing, malaria and HIV screening, as well as health education.
Free medications and referrals for further medical care were also provided where necessary.
The initiative comes against the backdrop of growing concerns over Nigeria’s fragile healthcare system, which remains out of reach for millions due to high costs, inadequate facilities, and insufficient personnel. The outreach served as a timely intervention for residents struggling to afford or access routine medical services.
Founder of the Foundation, Erezi Eterigho, said the program was part of ongoing efforts to support vulnerable populations and raise awareness about sickle cell disorder.
“Witnessing the profound impact of this outreach on the lives of people in Isolo fills us with immense gratitude,” Eterigho said. “Many Nigerians cannot afford to walk into a hospital for basic checks. This outreach is our way of showing love and ensuring people do not ignore their health due to lack of money.”
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Volunteers and healthcare professionals partnered with the Foundation to ensure the smooth delivery of services. In addition to screening and treatment, participants were engaged in brief health talks to encourage early detection of chronic illnesses and promote healthier lifestyles.
Several beneficiaries commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. “This came just when I needed it,” said one elderly woman who attended the event. “It’s been months since I had my blood pressure checked. I hope they come again.”
Community leaders and religious figures present at the event also lauded the Foundation’s efforts and called on other non-governmental organisations to emulate the gesture.
The outreach underscores the critical role of nonprofit organisations in filling healthcare delivery gaps in Nigeria, especially for conditions such as sickle cell disease that require consistent education, testing, and early intervention.
The Foundation has pledged to continue organising similar programs across other communities in Lagos and beyond, as part of its broader mission to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
