Abuja: The Rotary Club of Abuja Federal, District 9127, has urged the Federal Government to prioritize the well-being of Nigerians by enhancing primary healthcare services across the nation. This appeal was made during a free medical outreach organized at Piwoyi Community, Airport Road, Abuja, in partnership with Silver Cross Hospital and Foundation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs. Folashade Samuels, Assistant Governor of the Rotary Club of Abuja Federal, District 9127, expressed concern over the state of the Piwoyi Primary Health Care (PHC) Centre. Despite renovations undertaken by the Rotary Club, she emphasized the need for further government intervention. Samuels highlighted the necessity for improved infrastructure, essential medicines, and reliable electricity to boost maternal and child healthcare services at the facility.
Samuels implored the government to intensify efforts, noting the sad condition of the health center even after Rotary Club’s renovations. She pointed out the lack of pharmaceuticals and the ongoing electricity challenges as significant issues. Samuels advocated for government collaboration with organizations like the Rotary Club, acknowledging that while the government cannot handle everything alone, partnerships can enhance healthcare delivery.
Ismail-Adeleye Ibrahim, President of the Rotary Club of Abuja Federal, District 9127, also urged the Federal Government to ensure a consistent electricity supply to the Piwoyi PHC and other health facilities. He explained that the absence of electricity forced patients to seek basic laboratory tests elsewhere, adding to their financial burden.
Ibrahim noted that patients requiring simple tests, such as malaria diagnoses, often had to be referred to other facilities due to the lack of electricity. He mentioned that the Rotary Club was considering options like providing a generator or solar power, but emphasized the need for government involvement.
Mr. Philip Osung, Community Service Director of the Rotary Club of Abuja Federal, District 9127, appealed to well-meaning Nigerians and organizations to support efforts to improve the welfare of vulnerable groups. The outreach was part of activities marking Rotary’s Maternal and Child Health Month and was implemented in collaboration with Silver Cross Hospital and Foundation, with pregnant women registered at the facility as primary beneficiaries.
Osung stated that the outreach was an annual initiative of the club, with structures in place to ensure its sustainability. He highlighted the program’s role in helping beneficiaries understand their health status while providing medications and basic medical services, ultimately contributing to national development.
Dr. Justina Paul, District Secretary on Maternal and Child Health, called on the government to strengthen support for vulnerable communities by partnering with well-meaning organizations. She stressed that collaboration with development partners and charitable organizations would improve healthcare access for underserved Nigerians.