The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting healthy living and preventing non-communicable diseases through regular medical screening exercises across the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Amina Ahmed El-Imam, stated this during a medical screening exercise organised for drivers at Soludero Motor Park in Ilorin as part of activities marking the 2026 World Hypertension Day.

Represented by the Director of Public Health in the ministry, Oluwatosin Fakayode, the commissioner explained that World Hypertension Day is observed annually on May 17 to create awareness about the dangers of high blood pressure and encourage regular medical checks.

She said the initiative was aimed at safeguarding the health of drivers and reducing the growing burden of hypertension among residents of the state.

According to her, hypertension, often described as the "silent killer," remains one of the leading causes of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and sudden death globally.

El-Imam stressed the importance of regular blood pressure checks and healthy lifestyle practices in preventing complications associated with the condition.

She assured residents that the state government would continue to strengthen preventive healthcare services and expand health awareness campaigns to communities, motor parks and workplaces across the state.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Director of Public Health, Ajao Kasali, urged drivers and members of the public to cultivate the habit of checking their blood pressure regularly.

He warned that untreated hypertension could lead to sudden death without noticeable symptoms and advised residents to adopt healthy diets, reduce salt intake, engage in regular exercise and undergo routine medical examinations.

The outreach featured free blood pressure checks, health counselling and sensitisation sessions for drivers and commuters at the park.

The Coordinator of Drivers at the motor park, Aliu Ibrahim, commended the state government for the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful in improving public awareness about hypertension and healthy living.