Thousands of Lagos residents are receiving free surgeries, medical tests, and consultations as part of an outreach by the Onome Omobolaji Obada Foundation (OOOF), to bridge healthcare gaps and provide critical support to underserved communities.

The weeklong programme, which kicked off last week, has offered life-saving interventions, including surgeries, medications, diagnostic tests, and health consultations to communities.

Working in collaboration with ProHealth International, OOOF said it is offering a wide range of medical services. These include fibroid and cataract surgeries, dental care, ophthalmology, obstetrics, health education, and general consultations.

The foundation Director, Omolade Olatawura, described the outreach as part of the foundation’s yearly tradition of giving back to society in memory of the late Onome Omobolaji Obada.

“We began this journey in 2022 with our first outreach in Delta State. Since then, we’ve conducted multiple editions in Lagos and Delta States. This marks our fourth programme,” she explained.

According to Olatawura, each outreach typically results in between 5,000 to 7,000 medical interventions. “From treating simple headaches to carrying out complex surgeries, we aim to provide as much help as possible during the one-week period,” she added.

Speaking on behalf of ProHealth International, Dr Sholeye Folahan, noted that the organisation’s involvement aligns with its mission to reduce barriers to healthcare access, especially for financially disadvantaged individuals.

“We bring together volunteers from across the country, young and old, from various professional fields, all committed to making a difference,” he said.

Folahan underscored the importance of preventive health practices, urging Nigerians to monitor vital signs such as blood pressure and sugar levels, maintain a healthy diet, and manage stress. “Prevention is better and cheaper than cure. Simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in protecting our health,” he advised.

The outreach has completed numerous surgeries, including fibroid removals, eye procedures, and lump excisions. The foundation emphasised that its mission goes beyond this single event and is part of a broader effort to ease the burden of healthcare costs and improve health outcomes in underserved populations.

For many beneficiaries, the outreach has brought long-awaited medical relief. Jokodola Oluwaseyi, a trader, had battled persistent pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and frequent urination due to fibroids. After two years of living with the condition and being unable to afford surgery, she finally received the treatment she needed through the outreach.

Similarly, Tijani Taofik, a commercial motorcycle rider, had a noticeable facial lump for over two years. His condition was addressed through surgical procedure. Juliet Johnson, a teacher, endured a painful lipoma that frequently triggered fevers. She expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to live pain-free again.

Olaitan Joseph, a caterer, also shared her story of relief. After years of dealing with eye irritation and discomfort caused by pterygium, worsened when her corrective glasses were stolen, she finally underwent eye surgery.

Akodu Zainab, a civil servant diagnosed with a breast lump, had a successful lumpectomy performed as part of the initiative.