Akwanga:Nasarawa The Jennifer Etuh Foundation (JEF) has launched a free medical initiative in Nasarawa, aiming to provide healthcare services to 3,000 indigent Nigerians. This includes more than 100 surgeries at the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital in Akwanga.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the program manager of JEF, Mr. Joe Otu, revealed that this is the foundation’s first outreach in Nasarawa, following over 20 similar interventions nationwide. The foundation was established in memory of Mrs. Jennifer Ramatu-Etuh and focuses on health, economic empowerment, and education for women and girls.
The outreach, which began on October 12, has already treated hundreds of patients for conditions like fibroids, hernias, appendicitis, abscesses, and lumps. The medical team has also performed caesarean sections and provided eye and dental care, with over 50 surgeries completed and more planned.
On the first day, 645 individuals received medical services, followed by 954 on the second day. The 82-member medical team is provided by ProHealth International, with support from DASH, Peace House, and the Nasarawa State Government.
The foundation also conducted health education sessions, focusing on prevalent issues like hypertension. Plans are underway to introduce research components to identify health challenges in the communities served and guide future interventions.
Mrs. Christiana Afolayan, JEF’s Programme Officer, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to underserved areas and noted that while their primary focus is women and girls, the outreach is open to all in need.
Dr. Esala Abene, Chief Medical Director of DASH, praised the initiative for assisting those unable to afford healthcare. He highlighted the collaboration with the hospital to ensure ongoing services and emergency treatment.
Dr. Fred Dachung, the head surgeon, reported that the team has completed numerous procedures and anticipates exceeding the goal of 100 surgeries. Dr. Clement Tenufa, head of the Eye Care Unit, noted that about 25 successful eye surgeries have been performed, significantly improving patients’ quality of life.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the foundation’s work. Mr. Monday Jatau, who regained his sight after 20 years, and Mrs. Aisha Salihu, who delivered twins through a caesarean section, both shared their relief and appreciation for the foundation’s support. Mr. Apollo Esson, who underwent emergency surgery for a ruptured duodenum, credited the intervention with saving his life.