The Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation in partnership with the Kogi State Ministry of Youths and Sports Development organised free medical services to residents of rural communities in Kogi State.

The outreach, carried out in Ogene-Igah and Okpo communities in Olamaboro Local Government Area, provided dental care, eye care, general medical checks, paediatrics, as well as dental and eye surgeries.

Speaking on the programme, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Aridaojo Monday Anyebe, said the initiative was born out of concern for the limited access to quality healthcare in rural communities. He explained that many residents often travel long distances or incur costs they cannot afford just to receive basic medical attention. The outreach, he added, was designed to bring healthcare directly to the community.

According to Anyebe, the programme had clear and purposeful goals. It aimed to provide free, accessible medical services to as many residents as possible, with particular focus on the elderly, women, children, and other vulnerable groups. In addition to immediate treatment, the outreach sought to identify underlying health conditions through screenings and consultations, enabling early detection and timely intervention. Essential medications were also distributed to ensure that no resident was left without care.

The commissioner emphasized that the initiative was not only about delivering medical services, but also about restoring hope and reinforcing trust between the people and public institutions. “This outreach is a statement that the lives of Olamaboro residents matter, and that their health, dignity, and welfare are central priorities,” he said.

Anyebe further highlighted that the collaboration between his office and the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation aimed to inspire a culture of giving back and community service, planting the seeds for sustained access to healthcare in the area.