Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke on Tuesday, flagged off the fourth edition of Imole Free Surgical and Medical Outreach, disclosing that over 50,000 residents of the state have benefited from the initiative.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the initiative which is part of the activities marking the two year anniversary of his administration, Adeleke described the outreach as one of the major achievements of his government.
“Since its inception, this programme has provided life-changing care to over 50,000 people. Many of these individuals could not afford treatment and lived with their conditions for years.
“This initiative has become a lifeline for the masses. It provides fast and accessible medical and surgical care to those in need. Public feedback shows that people eagerly await each new round of this programme.
“In the last two years, we have achieved remarkable milestones in the health sector. We have strengthened primary healthcare, which is closest to the people. Over 200 primary health centers have been upgraded with 24-hour power and water supply.
“Our state was recently rated the best in the South West for health governance and leadership by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. This success is a result of our commitment and strategic planning.
“We have also improved conditions of health workers. Competitive remuneration has reduced the trend of workers leaving the state. I thank our health workforce for their dedication and assure you of continued support,” Adeleke said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Coordinator of the outreach, the Permanent Secretary, Minister of Health, Dr Isiaka Adekunle, said the latest edition of the health initiative is unique because the outreach has incorporated additional health interventions without leaving any of the interventions of the previous episodes which include Dental services, Cervical cancer screening and Breast examination to rule out breast cancer.
Adekunle mentioned that beneficiaries would be treated for hypertension, diabetes, malaria, cough, arthritis and other medical diseases while there would be surgical removal of hernias, hydrocela and various lumps.
He added that there would be cataract and pterygium operation, distribution of reading glasses and other eye treatments, noting that scaling and polishing, tooth extraction and general dental examination, cervical cancer screening and breast examination will be carried out.
“The programme will be taking place at six (6) State Hospitals in Osun State namely Osogbo (17th – 18th of December 2024), Iwo (14th – 15th of January 2025), Ilesa (21st – 22nd of January 2025), Ikirun (28th – 29th of January 2025), Ife (4th – 5th of February 2025), and Ede (11th – 12th of February 2025),” Adekunle stated.
Beneficiaries of the ongoing free health programme at Specialist Hospital Asubiaro, Osogbo, commended the governor at the flag-off.
