BY RITA OYIBOKA
In a laudable initiative to tackle critical health and socio-economic issues, the Rotary Club of Asaba Central, in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Asaba, organised a community outreach in Ibusa, Oshmili North Local Government Area, Delta State.
The initiative, tagged “FMC Plus” (Food, Medicals, and Clothing), focused on the distribution of clothing, free health checks, malaria and Blood Pressure (BP) screening, and the provision of medications.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Rotary Club of Asaba Central, Rtn. Barr. Uche Ojei highlighted the importance of the program. “This event marks an impactful day as we join hands to implement one of our District Governor’s major pet projects, FMC Plus. These efforts align with Rotary’s areas of focus, particularly economic and community development, as well as disease prevention and treatment. While we’ve previously focused on food distribution, this time we concentrated on clothing, free health checks, and a health talk.”
He added that the initiative aimed to ensure that members of the Ibusa community had access to essential medications, particularly malaria and BP drugs.
According to him, “Health is wealth. At this time of year, malaria is prevalent due to mosquito activity, and many elderly people suffer from hypertension. By providing these medications, along with professional advice from our doctor and nurse, we hope to make a positive impact on their health and well-being.”
Similarly, the President of the Rotaract Club of Asaba, Mr. John Efe, underscored the club’s dedication to fostering community development. “As young Rotarians, we recognise the need to contribute to the well-being of our society. This initiative is one of many ways we aim to give back and inspire hope,” he said.
He also revealed plans for future projects: “As we approach 2025, we’re planning more initiatives from January through June and we are excited to continue serving the community in meaningful ways.”
During the health talk, Nurse Eki Omozuwa emphasised the critical role of environmental hygiene and timely medical intervention in the prevention and treatment of malaria.
“Malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death in our region, yet it is both preventable and treatable. Maintain clean surroundings, wear protective clothing, and use mosquito repellents in high-risk areas. Ensure you sleep under treated mosquito nets at home and seek medical attention at the earliest signs of illness,” she advised.
Meanwhile, Pharmacist Christopher Onyezobi educated attendees on the risks associated with hypertension and the need for regular BP checks.
Community members expressed gratitude for the outreach. A mother of five, Mrs. Naomi Henry praised the organisers for their compassion. “It’s rare to find people who volunteer to help others, especially retirees. I pray that God will continue to bless them with grace and patience to keep up this good work without getting tired.”
Another beneficiary, Mr. Okonji Nwachukwu, commended the Rotary Club for their effort: “Not everyone can afford to buy drugs or clothes, especially with the current economic challenges. Initiatives like this bring hope to the masses. If such programmes happen more often, it will greatly benefit the community.”
