Several communities in Anambra State have received free medical services through a collaborative effort spearheaded by Mr. Paul Obu, the member representing Orumba North constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly. The initiative was organized in partnership with the Anambra State Government and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses in North America.
The five-day medical outreach provided essential healthcare services to residents of Ezira, Umuoji, Ajalli, and Akwaeze. It commenced with a series of health lectures held at the office of the Secretary to the Anambra State Government in Awka.
Residents benefited from various free medical services, including comprehensive eye examinations, the issuance of eyeglasses, blood pressure and sugar level checks, and other health-related services.
During the opening ceremony, Mr. Paul Obu, who also serves as the Minority Whip of the House of Assembly, expressed his appreciation to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his contributions to the health sector. He emphasized that the outreach was his way of giving back to society by bringing healthcare directly to the grassroots.
Mr. Obu, a philanthropist from Orumba North, acknowledged Dr. Sandra Anyoha, the founder of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses in North America, for her support. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with his five-point campaign agenda, which focuses on education, youth development, health, security, and infrastructural development. He also urged beneficiaries to maintain good health practices and follow medical advice for a healthy and long life.
Dr. Afam Obidike, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, praised Mr. Obu for the initiative, noting that it complements the State Government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for Ndi Anambra.
Pharmacist Chisom Uchem, the Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, described the free medical outreach as a response to Governor Soludo’s call for affluent individuals to partner with the government in development projects.
The event was also attended by notable figures, including Chief Emma Nwafor, the member representing Orumba South in the Anambra State House of Assembly; Retired Captain Casmir Nwafor, Transition Committee Chairman of Orumba North Local Government Area; Mr. Shedrack Azubuike, Transition Committee Chairman of Orumba South Local Government Area; and Mr. Romanus Ibekwe, Transition Committee Chairman of Anaocha Local Government Area, all of whom applauded the initiative.
Leaders of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses in North America, including Mrs. Stella Ngozi Okonkwo, Dr. Esther Oshunluyi, and Dr. Tessy Okoro, commended Mr. Obu for organizing the outreach. In their lectures, they provided health education to student doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, encouraging them to stay updated with current global practices.
The program also featured the decoration of Mr. Paul Obu as the Grand Patron of the Anambra State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses in North America, the induction of Pharmacist Chisom Uchem into the association, and the official opening of the renovated Ezira Primary Healthcare Centre, marking the climax of the free medical mission.