SSG, traditional ruler laud NYSC medical outreach in rural communities

By Leonard Okachie

The Secretary to the Abia State Government (SSG), Mr Chris When, has lauded the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), for touching lives in rural communities, through its free medical outreaches.

Ezem made the commendation at the launch of the second quarter of the scheme’s Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme held in Amibo Community in Umuahia South Local Government Area of the state.

The SGG, who congratulated NYSC on its 50th anniversary, said that the scheme had achieved its objectives with its contributions to the growth and development of the nation.

Ezem, who hails from Amibo, expressed gratitude to NYSC for organising the outreach in his community.

He hoped that the programme would give his people first time information about their health status.

Also, the Traditional Ruler of Amibo, Eze Marcus Ukandu, represented by his Prime Minister, Chief Bernard, thanked NYSC and called for the sustenance of the health initiative.

“We are excited that NYSC brought this free medical outreach to our community because they say “health is wealth.

“Last night, the town crier went round the community to inform our people about this programme and that is why you have many of us gathered here today,” Ukandu said.

Declaring the event open, the Abia NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Ufuoma Dick-Iruenabere, said it was remarkable that the exercise was happening at a time the scheme was celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Dick-Iruenabere said that HIRD had a core responsibility of mobilising corps medical personnel toward the provision of health interventions.

She said that the scheme was prepared to make adequate use of the abundant skilled human resources at its disposal to improve the quality of life of the people.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Joy Chikezie, thanked NYSC for offering them free medical service right in their community.

“I did not have money to buy drugs, but I got them for free here,” Chikezie said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the free medical services featured consultations, laboratory tests, treatment and dispensing of drugs.

(NAN)