In a bold step toward improving grassroots healthcare delivery, Idah Club 6575 held a groundbreaking medical outreach program on April 18, 2025, at the Idah Club House.
Organised under the auspices of the Medical and Sanitation Committee, the outreach marked a paradigm shift from traditional, short-term health interventions to a more sustainable and impactful model, anchored on capacity building, training, and empowerment of local Primary Health Centre (PHC) personnel.
A Shift in Vision: From Palliatives to Sustainability
Historically, medical outreaches in the area have focused largely on one-off treatments for common ailments, particularly chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. While these efforts have brought temporary relief, the lack of follow-up care and the failing state of PHCs in the area have limited their long-term impact.
This year, the Medical and Sanitation Committee, led by Dr. Ibrahim Benjamin proposed a visionary plan endorsed by the club’s executive council in May 2024 to address systemic issues at the PHC level. The strategy was simple yet profound: train and equip the very healthcare workers who are embedded within the community to handle prevalent diseases more effectively.
Training for Impact: Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
The theme of the April 18th training was “Improving Integration of the Care of Non-Communicable Diseases into Healthcare Delivery at Primary Health Centres of Idah Local Government Area” This first of its kind initiative aimed at enhancing screening, early detection, and proper follow-up of hypertension, diabetes, and other NCDs, diseases that silently wreak havoc on rural communities due to neglect and lack of knowledge.
Through audiovisual and PowerPoint presentations, the 38 participating healthcare workers, drawn from all ten wards of Idah LGA, received practical and evidence-based training. The session emphasised community-level care models, holistic disease management, and the critical role of education in prevention.
Symbolic Support and Distinguished Attendance
The outreach drew the attention of both traditional and political authorities, underscoring its importance to the community.
The Executive Chairman of Idah LGA, Alhaji Halilu Alfa, declared the program open, flanked by his chief of staff, health advisers, and top health officials from the local government. Representing the royal institution, Onu Edeke stood in for the Attah Igala, lending cultural and moral authority to the program.
Arc. Justice Akwu, Vice President of IC6575, led the club’s delegation, alongside 13 active members who witnessed the milestone event.
Tools for Service: Donations to Drive Performance
To ensure that the training translates into real-world results, each of the 10 wards received a set of essential medical tools: one glucometer machine, one sphygmomanometer, one stethoscope, and a pack of 50 glucometer strips. These items were designated for use in PHC centres within each ward, a clear sign of commitment to empowering local clinics.
Additionally, educational materials, calendars printed with key health information on hypertension and diabetes, were distributed to all attendees, ensuring that the knowledge imparted continues to resonate long after the session. Medications generously donated by Pharm. Sunday Agamah were handed over to PHC workers to support patient care.
It is worthy of note that Dr. Agada Okpanachi funded the provision of glucometer strips to the tune of ₦140,000, further illustrating how the outreach was a collective effort powered by goodwill and community spirit.
A Model for the Future
The medical outreach by IC6575 is not just a program, it is a template. By focusing on capacity building, resource provision, and systemic sustainability, the club has set a new standard for community based health interventions.
Dr. Ibrahim Benjamin and his team have extended their heartfelt gratitude to the club for the opportunity to serve and make a difference. With this outreach, IC6575 has not only touched lives but also sown the seeds for a healthier and more empowered Idah.
As the community reflects on the success of this initiative, the message is clear: real transformation begins at the grassroots, and with vision, unity, and commitment, change is not only possible, it is already happening. Health is wealth, and a healthy community is a prosperous community. We should strive to give good access to the medical needs of our immediate community.
