As part of efforts to provide basic healthcare services to rural communities, the Esther Matthew Tonlagha (EMT) Foundation in collaboration with Kogi state ministery of Youths and Sports Development has conducted a medical outreach in Kogi State.
The outreach, held in two communities—Ogene-Igah and Okpo—featured dental care, eye care, general medical checks and paediatric services. It also included dental and eye surgeries for patients requiring advanced treatment.
Speaking at the event, the Kogi State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aridaojo Monday Anyebe, said the medical outreach programme held in Olamaboro was driven by genuine concern for the health and well-being of residents of Olamaboro Local Government Area.
He noted that, like many rural communities across the country, Olamaboro has long struggled with limited access to affordable and quality healthcare.
“Residents often have to travel long distances or bear costs they cannot afford simply to receive basic medical attention. It was this reality, and the desire to directly address it, that inspired my office and the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation to come together and bring healthcare relief to the heart of the community,” he said.
According to Anyebe, the outreach was designed with clear objectives, particularly to provide free and accessible medical services to as many residents as possible, especially the elderly, women, children and other vulnerable groups who are often underserved.
“Beyond immediate treatment, the programme also sought to identify underlying health conditions in the community through screenings and consultations, enabling early detection and timely intervention.
“It also aimed to distribute essential medications to those in need, ensuring that no resident was turned away without receiving some form of care and support. For many who could not seek medical care, healthcare was brought directly to their doorstep,” he added.
Anyebe said the outreach was also aimed at restoring hope and strengthening trust between the people and public servants, noting that it underscores the importance of prioritising the health, dignity and welfare of residents.
He added that the collaboration between his office and the EMT Foundation is expected to inspire a culture of community service and giving back, while laying the foundation for improved and sustained access to healthcare in Olamaboro.