Free Healthcare Initiative Brightens Lives of Children in Makoko, Lagos State
In a heartwarming display of community support, the Neo Child Initiative for Africa (TNCI) recently provided free healthcare services to over 250 children in Makoko, a vibrant but underserved area of Lagos State. Held earlier this week, the annual outreach program focused on children and teens aged 0 to 17, offering a range of essential medical services aimed at improving public health standards in the community.
The outreach was comprehensive, featuring malaria screenings, dental consultations, immunizations, deworming treatments, nutritional assessments, health education sessions, and free medication. These efforts were particularly important in light of a recent survey conducted by TNCI, which highlighted ongoing challenges related to hygiene and sanitation in the area.
Esther Nwaiwu, TNCI’s Senior Programme Coordinator, emphasized the significance of accessible healthcare for the children of Makoko. “Our survey revealed important hygiene and sanitation challenges. Today, we’re not just providing immediate care; we’re laying the groundwork for a healthier future,” Nwaiwu remarked. She also indicated that this initiative is part of a larger ongoing commitment. “We plan to return in three months to evaluate the impact of our services and outline next steps.”
Collaboration with local health authorities is key to TNCI’s strategy. By partnering with primary healthcare centers and local government, TNCI ensures that the efforts made during the outreach will lead to sustainable improvements in the community’s health standards. “With proper support, we envision extending our outreach to over 1,000 children,” Nwaiwu added, underscoring the need for government assistance to amplify their impact.
Eunice Adeyeye, TNCI’s Assistant Health Lead, shared the organization’s commitment to preventive healthcare. “Our slogan, ‘Our Today for Their Tomorrow,’ emphasizes our encouragement of preventive measures, from vaccinations to dental hygiene,” Adeyeye explained. The initiative aims not just to treat illness but to instill health-promoting habits that adhere to global standards.
Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. A grateful resident noted how the program has helped her children stay healthier. “The treatments have really reduced the frequency of illnesses in my family. I sincerely appreciate this support,” she shared.
As TNCI continues its journey to uplift children’s health in Makoko, the need for broader support illustrates the critical role of community initiatives in positively transforming lives. With the added backing of government and other stakeholders, the potential for reaching and assisting even more children in need is immense.
Tags: #Nigeria #Lagos #Health #CommunitySupport #HealthcareInitiative #WorldNews #Lifestyle
