Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq today flagged off the Kwara Project Ten Million to screen one hundred and ninety-six thousand, nine hundred and thirteen residents of Kwara for hypertension and diabetes.
The launch, which was held at the State Banquet Hall, is expected to run from 27th of October to the 3rd of November 2024.
Represented by his Deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, Governor AbdulRazaq stated that hypertension and diabetes are a pressing health challenge affecting millions globally and posing significant risks to our communities, hence the need for a free screening programme for hypertension and diabetes for the residents of the state.
He added that with health being a fundamental right, this administration has been and will continue to take significant steps towards combating these silent diseases by ensuring that every citizen has easy access to the resources they need to live a healthy life.
“Through this screening programme, we seek to raise awareness, offer free screening, and provide education on prevention and management” he explained.
He urged Kwarans to take advantage of this programme by participating in the exercise, adding that together, the cycle of ignorance and stigma surrounding these conditions can be broken as well as promoting a proactive approach to health.
Governor AbdulRazaq noted that in addition to this free screening initiative, it is imperative that healthier lifestyle changes be made, which includes eating healthy, regular exercise, and regular check-ups.
The Governor expressed gratitude to the healthcare professionals, community organizations, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to bring this initiative to life.
In her speech, First Lady of Kwara state and Founder Ajike Foundation, Amb. Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq stated that this initiative being launched today underscores the commitment of the state government to the health of Kwarans.
She noted the importance of early detection and prompt treatment of diseases in order to prevent complications that may arise from late detection.
She charged residents of the state to prioritize their wellbeing by knowing their blood pressure and blood sugar count in order to avert the incidence of sudden death.
In her address, Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam explained that the Project Ten Million is an initiative of the Nigeria Health Commissioner’s Forum endorsed by the Nigeria Governor’s Forum, the Federal Ministry of Health and several development partners.
She added that the Project is aimed at screening 10 Million Nigerians for the two major and deadliest non-communicable diseases, hypertension and diabetes, across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Honorable Yakubu Salihu Danladi represented by Hon Abdulkareem Musa expressed joy over the initiative, pledging that all 24 members of the House will take the awareness to all their constituents so that they can all benefit from the project.
Chairman House Committee on Health and Environment, Hon. Razaq Owolabi lauded the administration of Governor AbdulRazaq for prioritizing the health of residents, assuring the full participation of the State House of Assembly to the wellbeing of the people of the state.
Development Partners and other stakeholders commended the intervention of the government of Kwara state aimed at improving the health of residents of the state, pledging their continued support to Kwara State.