FIC Report (Anambra State) – The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Anambra State has officially flagged off its 3rd Quarter Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) at the General Hospital Mbaukwu in Awka South Local Government Area.
The Anambra State Coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, said the event marked a significant milestone for the Mbaukwu community, which received comprehensive, free medical services for the first time under the HIRD programme and that over hundred residents benefited from consultations, diagnostics, and treatment provided by a multidisciplinary team of NYSC Corps members, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, optometrists, physiotherapists, and medical laboratory scientists.
The HIRD which was launched in 2014 is a flagship outreach of the NYSC aimed at bridging healthcare gaps in underserved rural communities.
Mrs. Ojisua emphasized the programme’s mission: Health is wealth, which thrives to improve the health of rural dwellers in order to uplift families, strengthen communities, and build a more resilient Nigeria.
The Coordinator lauded the dedication of Corps members and expressed gratitude to the traditional institution, community leaders, and residents of Mbaukwu for their warm reception and logistical support.
She also called on private individuals, NGOs, and government agencies to partner with NYSC in scaling up the initiative.
The President General of the Mbaukwu Progressive Union, Comrade Ikechukwu Afuekwe, represented by Builder Chijioke Okeke (Vice Chairman of the Union) delivered an emotional address, noting that previous years of neglect had finally been over.
The traditional ruler of Mbaukwu, His Royal Majesty Igwe Dr. Peter Nwokike Anugwu who was represented by Chief Dr. Godfrey Ogalaya, performed the symbolic breaking of kola nuts, a revered Igbo tradition signifying peace, unity, and divine blessing for the event and further commended NYSC’s initiative for its commitment and efforts towards the health of the people.
The health activities included free screenings for malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and maternal and child health assessments, alongside health education sessions on nutrition, hygiene, exercise, and preventive care. Many attendees expressed relief at accessing services they would otherwise travel miles and spend heavily to obtain.
Signed
Ibeneme Maria Nkilimma
Sen Info and Public Relations Officer
7/10/25
