The First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has once again demonstrated commitment to building healthier communities by extending her campaign against drug abuse to a broader medical outreach.
Speaking at the free medical medical outreach in Agassa and Upogoro in August, Dr. Hope Omeiza who leads the initiative described the project as complimentary of the efforts of the First Lady to promote awareness on the menace of drug abuse among young people under the Ohunene Empowerment Foundation.
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According to him:
“What began three months ago as a targeted intervention for young people has now grown into a holistic health programme reaching hundreds of residents.”
He noted that Mrs Ododo had earlier launched the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program at Idoji/Onyukoko wards, a project designed to tackle the rising wave of substance abuse among youths.
Building on its success, he noted that the initiative was expanded to Agassa/Upogoro Ward in August where it received overwhelming support and calls for greater inclusiveness.
He said beneficiaries from previous medical outreaches expressed heartfelt concerns about the elderly population, many of whom are quietly battling drug dependence and chronic medical conditions without access to adequate care.
Their appeal, he said became the turning point that reshaped the scope of the intervention.
“True to her reputation as a compassionate leader, Hajia Sefinat Ododo responded swiftly. On Saturday, September 19, 2025, she flagged off a Free Medical Outreach which brought together medical experts to deliver services to more than 500 residents, including the elderly, women, and young people”, he noted.
He explained that the outreach combined awareness campaigns on drug abuse with essential health services such as vital signs checks, blood tests, medical consultations, and free dispensing of prescription drugs.
He said the program also provided education to empower families with knowledge for long-term health management.
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According to Dr. Hope:
“Her Excellency emphasized that her commitment goes beyond treating illnesses—it is about building resilient and empowered communities. She believes that a healthy people are the foundation of a progressive society, and this is a conviction that continues to inspire her grassroots interventions across Kogi State”, he added.