Open hands amazing fetes less privileged in Lagos

A charitable organisation, Open Hands Amazing, has distributed cash, food, and free medical items to residents of the Ketu-Alapere area of Lagos to alleviate the suffering of less privileged Nigerians amid the current economic hardships.

The programme, sponsored by the organisation’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Magdalene Agada, a resident of the United States, aimed to relieve underprivileged children, motherless babies, the elderly, and impoverished individuals.

Agada emphasised the importance of giving, especially during harsh economic times, stating, “It is good to share, especially with people who cannot afford to buy medication or see doctors.”

The programme catered to about 1,000 people in Ketu and included free screenings for high blood pressure, temperature checks, sugar level checks, HIV checks, and consultations with qualified doctors. Pharmacists were also on hand to dispense prescribed drugs. Food and Bibles were also distributed, and elderly individuals aged 50 and above received N5,000 each.

Kingsley Okonta, the outreach team leader, commended Agada’s selfless efforts, saying, “She has been doing this for a long time, and we have been to Enugu, Delta State, and now Lagos. We plan to go to other states to help the poor.”

Okonta called on well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative, emphasising that Agada’s efforts were not politically motivated. He also urged the government to take a more hands-on approach to addressing the needs of the poor and vulnerable, highlighting the dire need for affordable healthcare in Nigeria.

One beneficiary, David Adegoke, expressed gratitude for the medical outreach and urged other well-meaning Nigerians to follow suit. He commended the organisers for their unique approach and thoughtfulness, stating that the programme was a welcome surprise and beneficial to all participants.

Another beneficiary, Francesca, described the programme as commendable and thanked the organisers for remembering them, especially when the economy severely impacts Nigerians.