Amidst the poor state of Nigeria’s health sector, a Community Development and Health Consultancy firm – Como Consult Limited – has called for more healthcare initiatives for underserved communities.

The firm, while making this call yesterday in Abuja during its Mid-Year Evaluation forum, berated the Federal Government and critical stakeholders for paying inadequate attention to the plight of people living in rural, underserved communities.

Speaking on behalf of Como Consult Limited, the “Head of Operations”- Mr Elaigwu K. Elaigwu said the rising maternal mortality rate and deaths caused by preventable diseases can be abated if more resources and attention are channeled towards underserved communities.

According to Elaigwu, there is an urgent need for the implementation of multiple initiatives designed to improve healthcare delivery and outcome, for example; health awareness programs tailored to educate local populations about pressing health concerns, including maternal and child health, infectious disease prevention, proper sanitation, and nutrition.will empower individuals with the knowledge they need to take proactive measures toward their health and well-being.

“Healthcare services like routine screenings for high blood pressure and diabetes to consultations on reproductive health and mental well-being will
bridge the gap between healthcare professionals and those in need,” he said.

While reeling out some of the firm’s activities in the period under review, Elaigwu stated that many healthcare facilities in rural Nigeria face significant challenges due to the lack of essential medical supplies, adding that Como Consult Limited stepped in to provide medical supplies and medical equipment to hospitals, clinics, and primary healthcare centers in many underserved areas.

“By equipping these facilities with life-saving medicines, diagnostic tools, and modern medical equipment, the company has strengthened the capacity of local healthcare providers to deliver effective and timely treatment.”

“The impact of these interventions has been profound. In several rural communities, maternal and infant mortality rates have decreased due to the availability of sterile delivery kits and improved prenatal care. Similarly, the provision of essential medicines for malaria, tuberculosis, and other infectious diseases has saved thousands of lives.” he added.

Elaigwu further hinted that through its medical volunteer training programs, the company will be empowering young healthcare workers, community health workers, and local volunteers with the necessary skills to provide first aid, conduct screenings, and assist in medical outreaches.

He said these trained volunteers are instrumental in extending healthcare services to remote villages where access to professional healthcare is limited. He therefore advocated for more collaborations between the public and private sectors to effectively meet the needs of underserved communities.

He stressed that the nation’s goal must be to ensure that no community is left behind when it comes to healthcare.

“We believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. By combining medical expertise, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, significant progress will be made in the transformation of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, especially underserved communities,” Elaigwu reiterated.