In a remarkable display of compassion and healthcare excellence, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, joined forces with the visionary the wife of the State Governor, Her Excellency, Chief Mrs Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Ogbonna Nwifuru and her pet project "Better Health for Rural Women and Internally Displaced Persons (BERWO)" to orchestrate a monumental medical outreach at Oferekpe Agbaja in Izzi Local Area on December 16, 2023.
Led by Chief Medical Director Prof. Onoh Robinson, the collaborative effort, supported by Her Excellency Chief Mrs Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Ogbonna Nwifuru, aimed to transcend conventional healthcare initiatives, laying the groundwork for a paradigm shift in community well-being and grassroots healthcare.
The medical outreach, attended by over 200 impassioned Clinical and Nonclinical staff members, addressed an array of minor surgical cases, emphasizing comprehensive care. Notably, the ophthalmology department distributed over 300 eyeglasses, not only correcting vision but illuminating lives and empowering individuals to envision a future full of possibilities.
Beyond medical care, the outreach embraced a holistic philosophy, distributing hygiene products to over 500 adults, conducting Q&A sessions for teenagers, and even providing intensive training sessions for local farmers. The dual focus on health and agriculture reflects a holistic approach to community development, fostering both well-being and prosperity.
Strategic partnerships, including support from the World Health Organisation and the Association of Microcredit Institution of Nigeria, fortified the outreach's impact. Dr Vivian Ibeziako of WHO and Princess Comfort Nweke of AMPCIN played pivotal roles in ensuring optimal services and donating essential items.
As the curtains close on this transformative healthcare odyssey, the Chief Medical Director, Prof Onoh Robinson expressed confidence that the positive ripple effect will resonate far beyond the outreach date, leaving an indelible mark on the lives and communities touched. Prof Onoh Robinson concluded, "With the work done, the Christmas celebration has started, remarkably ushering the people into the year 2024 in grand health."