Kwara State Government has launched its 2025 Free Medical Surgical Outreach at the Aisha Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Eyekorin, in Asa Local Government Area.

State Commissioner for Health Dr Amina Ahmed El-Imam flagged off the initiative on behalf of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing it as "a life-changing milestone in our journey toward universal health coverage for all Kwarans." The outreach forms part of the state's sustained drive to expand access to quality healthcare, particularly for underserved communities.

Dr El-Imam emphasised the programme's transformative impact: "This initiative saves lives and strengthens trust in our healthcare system. By removing financial barriers, we're ensuring no resident is denied critical surgical care."

"This is a wonderful, sustained effort initiated and consistently supported by His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

It is driven by the Ministry of Health through the Directorate of Medical Services and Training, under the leadership of Dr. Musiliu Odunaiya," she explained.

Dr. El-Imam emphasized the uniqueness and scale of the outreach, noting that few states in Nigeria offer such a widespread, grassroots-level free healthcare initiative.

"In fact, Kwara State's medical surgical outreach was commended during the 2024 National Council on Health meeting. Many found it hard to believe that a State could offer such comprehensive free services to its people. If you were to seek the same treatment at a private hospital, it would cost nothing less than N500,000," she added.

The Commissioner further explained that the 2025 Free Medical Surgical Outreach is expected to provide a wide range of free medical and surgical services to hundreds of beneficiaries across the State, reaffirming the administration's commitment to inclusive healthcare.

She advised citizens, especially pregnant women, to utilize health facilities regularly and attend antenatal clinics at least four times before delivery.

Dr El-Imam also cautioned against patronizing traditional birth attendants, stressing the importance of skilled and professional care.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the House Committee on Health and Nutrition, Seun Ogunniyi, described the outreach as a government initiative that reflects the administration's commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of vulnerable populations.

"As a government that listens and acts, we recognize the healthcare challenges faced by our rural communities. This outreach is a step toward alleviating those challenges. Our Governor has continued to prioritize healthcare and invest heavily in social programmes that ease the burden on our people," he stated.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Asa Local Government Area, Sheu Amosa, lauded Governor AbdulRazaq for bringing the outreach to the area, describing it as a significant gesture that would greatly benefit residents, particularly pregnant women.

He therefore, encouraged them to make judicious use of the facilities provided and guard them jealously against vandalisation.