Nearly 6,000 People Receive Free Medical Care in Akwa Ibom

Almost 6,000 people received free medical care during a recent health workshop in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. This initiative was sponsored by the NNPC/SEPLAT Joint Venture EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust and organized by the Global Hands Medical Foundation.

The program provided a wide range of services, including 318 general surgeries, 151 eye surgeries, and 457 dental procedures. It also included over 2,500 laboratory tests and distributed more than 2,400 pairs of reading glasses. Additionally, there were 102 referrals for patients needing more advanced medical care.

Asuquo Inuikim Obon, a member of the Board of Trustees for the EMOIMEE Trust, highlighted that the workshop took place over one week in each of the five communities: Enwang, Uda, Udesi, Ebughu, and Effiat. He emphasized the Trust’s commitment to improving health and well-being in these areas, stating that access to quality healthcare should not depend on a person’s financial situation.

Chief Ulo Ante Uye, head of the Management Committee, and Chief Ita Ntekim, Secretary of the Advisory Committee, both noted that good health is vital for the success of community development projects. They pointed out that residents need to be healthy to benefit fully from the Trust’s initiatives.

Dr. Titus Antai, Chief Medical Consultant for the Global Hands Medical Foundation, explained that the surgeries included procedures for hernias, appendicitis, and fibroids, as well as eye surgeries for cataracts. Dental services covered tooth extractions and other treatments.

Dr. Katherine Ntekim, Chief Medical Director of the foundation, mentioned that the program aims to meet the healthcare needs of vulnerable individuals, extending its reach beyond the immediate host communities. She expressed gratitude for the support from the EMOIMEE Trust, hoping the program would continue to assist those in need.

Dr. Idara Eduok, a health worker involved in the program, stated that the successful completion of this year’s edition shows the Trust’s dedication to making healthcare accessible as part of its community development efforts.