By Torkwase Nyiekaa

Copyright independent

…Over 600 Residents Receive Free Healthcare, 200 Eyeglasses Distributed

Amid rising security concerns in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has teamed up with the Rotary Club of Abuja City, District 9127, and private health providers to organize a two-day security awareness and medical outreach across Guzape and Piyakasa communities.

The initiative, valued at over ₦10 million, delivered comprehensive medical care including malaria diagnosis and treatment, hepatitis screening, checks for blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as eye examinations. More than 200 residents received free corrective eyeglasses, along with medical consultations and health counselling.

Children and mothers benefited from deworming treatments, while focused security enlightenment sessions were held for local leaders, youths, and residents.

Representing the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, Commander of the NSCDC FCT Armed Squad Unit, John Alaba Stephen, emphasized the programme’s goal to merge health promotion with public safety education, underscoring that healthy and secure communities are vital for national development.

“We’re here to raise awareness about safety and provide essential healthcare so that communities remain both peaceful and healthy,” he said.

“Security is a shared responsibility. Collaboration between residents and security agencies is key to effectively combating crime.”

During the security briefing, Commander Emmanuel Lukou urged locals not to overlook suspicious behavior and to promptly report any threats.

“If you see something, say something,” Lukou advised. “Delays in reporting could be dangerous. Everyone has a role to play in community safety.”

Rotary Club President, Gloria Ikibah, said the outreach aligns with Rotary International’s core focus areas, including peacebuilding, disease prevention, maternal and child health, and polio eradication.

“Good health empowers people to protect their surroundings. We’re committed to supporting communities and schools with ongoing initiatives. This isn’t a one-time project—Rotary gives back continually,” Ikibah noted.

“By addressing critical health needs and raising security consciousness, we’re helping families live more securely and confidently. This approach strengthens communities across the FCT.”

Dr. Patrick Ezie, Medical Director of Silver Cross Hospitals, disclosed that between 600 and 700 individuals were treated for various ailments, including hypertension, typhoid, malaria, high blood sugar, and skin infections.

He stressed the importance of routine medical evaluations, urging Nigerians to prioritize preventive healthcare over emergency treatment.

“We’ve seen a wide range of patients from both Guzape and Piakasa, many with serious but manageable conditions,” Dr. Ezie explained.

“We offered services like malaria tests, hepatitis screenings, PSA tests, and typhoid diagnostics. Some severe cases were referred for specialist treatment. This initiative reflects our commitment to universal health coverage under our corporate social responsibility mandate.”

Diamond Abba, Programme Manager of Eye Care Aid Foundation, highlighted the need for regular eye exams, explaining that many eye-related issues go unnoticed until they worsen.

“Our mission is to conduct free eye checks and distribute glasses to those with refractive errors,” Abba said. “Most people don’t realize they need help until their vision deteriorates. We recommend eye screenings every two years, especially as aging weakens the eye muscles.”

Chief Bitrus Yakubu of Guzape expressed deep appreciation to the organisers for combining health services with security education. He appealed for increased security intervention in neighboring communities such as Badumatiri, Kobe One, and Kobe Two, areas plagued by rising incidents of kidnapping.

“We’re grateful for this programme, but we need more help. Nearby areas like Badumatiri and Kobe are facing serious security threats. We request more personnel and patrol vehicles to help protect our communities,” the Chief urged.

Beneficiaries of the programme also shared their appreciation. Lami Jiwa, a mother of three, credited the outreach with potentially saving her life.

“My blood pressure was dangerously high, but I had no idea. They gave me medicine and explained how to manage it. I’m truly thankful, as I wouldn’t have been able to afford this on my own,” she said.

Joseph Daniel, a local farmer, received a pair of eyeglasses after his eye screening.

“I’ve had trouble seeing for years, especially at night. Today they tested my eyes and gave me glasses, for free. I can now work with ease. God bless Rotary and Civil Defence for this kindness,” he said.

The outreach, which also involved partners like Medplus Pharmacy, Dream Awake Empowering Initiative, and Eye Care Aid Foundation, is part of a broader mission to build community resilience through integrated health and security efforts.