Over 50,000 residents benefit from IMOLE free surgical programme in Osun — Gov. Adeleke
By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has announced that over 50,000 residents of the state have benefited from the IMOLE Free Surgical and Medical Outreach programme.
Adeleke made the disclosure on Tuesday during the flag-off of the 4th ‘Imole’ free surgical and medical outreach at the State Specialist Hospital, Asubiaro, Osogbo.
He highlighted that despite the state’s economic challenges, his administration had fulfilled its promise of delivering quality healthcare services to the people of Osun.
“We are committed to delivering on this promise. We are pursuing this goal with determination and focus,” the Governor said.
“Since the inception of this administration, this programme has provided life-changing care to over 50,000 people. Many of these individuals could not afford treatment and lived with their conditions for years. This initiative has become a lifeline for the masses, offering fast and accessible medical and surgical care to those in need. Public feedback shows that people eagerly await each new round of this programme.”
Governor Adeleke further emphasised that his administration has made significant strides in the health sector, particularly in strengthening primary healthcare. He noted that over 200 primary health centres had been upgraded, with 24-hour power and water supply.
“Our state was recently rated the best in the South West for health governance and leadership by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. This success is a result of our commitment and strategic planning,” he added.
Governor Adeleke also highlighted improvements in the welfare of healthcare workers, stating that competitive remuneration has reduced the trend of health professionals leaving the state. He expressed gratitude to the state’s health workforce for their dedication and assured them of continued support.
“This edition of the IMOLE Outreach will be held in six zones: Osogbo, Ilesa, Iwo, Ikirun, Ife, and Ede. I encourage our people to take advantage of this programme. Medical experts in various specialties are ready to attend to your needs,” he stated.
The Governor officially flagged off the 4th ‘Imole’ Free Surgical and Medical Outreach, wishing that the programme would continue to benefit the good people of Osun State.
Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the ‘Imole’ Medical and Surgical Outreach and Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Dr. Isiaka Adekunle, noted that this year’s outreach has incorporated additional health interventions, while maintaining the core services from previous editions, such as dental services, cervical cancer screening, and breast examinations.
Dr. Adekunle added that the medical outreach programme had treated individuals with a variety of conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, malaria, cough, and arthritis, among others. He also highlighted the success of the surgical operations, which included the removal of hernias, hydroceles, and various lumps. Ophthalmological treatments, such as cataract and pterygium surgeries, along with the distribution of reading glasses and other eye treatments, were also carried out. Additionally, dental services, including scaling, polishing, tooth extractions, and general dental examinations, were provided.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with newsmen after the programme expressed their happiness and applauded the Governor for delivering on his promise of providing the dividend of democracy to the people.
