As part of efforts to improve healthcare access for vulnerable women, the Human Development Initiatives (HDI) Foundation has provided free medical screenings and health insurance enrolment for 250 indigent widows across local communities in Lagos.

The outreach, which took place under the initiative IMPACT 2025: Health Intervention for Widows, focused on addressing the physical and emotional health needs of widows, many of whom face challenges due to economic hardship and limited access to care.

The Executive Director of HDI, Funsho Owasanoye said the initiative aimed to reach widows who are often left out of routine healthcare due to their financial status or emotional struggles.

She said the organisation invited volunteer doctors and nurses to carry out basic health checks such as blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, and weight assessments.

The widows were also enrolled into the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme at a subsidised rate.

Owasanoye said many widows struggle with grief, isolation, and mental stress, which often manifests in physical illnesses noting that several of the women avoid visiting hospitals and tend to suffer in silence.

She called on government agencies, corporate bodies, and private individuals to collaborate in expanding such interventions, stressing that collective support can empower more widows to live healthier, more dignified lives.

A medical doctor, Ubak Edikan highlighted the common conditions observed among widows, particularly mental health issues like depression and anxiety, as well as hypertension.

He explained that losing a partner often leaves widows emotionally vulnerable, leading to physical health complications over time.

Edikan noted that community-based health education and social support initiatives, like the one organised by HDI, play a key role in helping widows reconnect with others and feel valued in society.

One of the beneficiaries, Omotayo Amao expressed gratitude to the foundation, saying the support over the years from the foundation has made positive difference in her life and that of others in her community.