NYSC Osun holds 2nd Quarter rural health initiative in Awo Community

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Osun State, through its Medical Community Development Service (CDS) Group, on Friday conducted the second quarter edition of its Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) in Awo Community, Egbedore Local Government Area, bringing free healthcare services and health education to residents.

The outreach programme, which forms part of NYSC’s commitment to community development and grassroots healthcare delivery, attracted a large turnout of community members who benefited from free medical consultations, health screenings and the distribution of prescribed medications.

Among the dignitaries present were the Alawo of Awo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulrazaq Taiwo Adegboye Abioye III; the NYSC Osun State Coordinator, Mr. Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, accompanied by some members of his Management Team; and the Member representing Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Bamidele Salam. Traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders also graced the occasion.

In his welcome address, the Assistant Director, Community Development Service and Special Project, Mr. Oyedokun Christopher, expressed appreciation to Awo Community for hosting the initiative.

He highlighted the significance of the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers, describing it as a quarterly intervention programme designed to improve access to healthcare in underserved communities. He noted that the initiative has continued to record remarkable milestones across the state through its positive impact on rural populations.

Speaking at the event, the Alawo of Awo, Oba Abdulrazaq Taiwo Adeboye Abioye III, commended the management of the NYSC for sustaining the laudable programme. He urged members of the community to embrace the free healthcare services provided and called on residents to continue praying for the success and safety of the Scheme and its corps members.

“A programme that takes free healthcare to rural communities deserves the support and prayers of the people,” the monarch stated.

Flagging off the programme, the State Coordinator, Mr. Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, thanked the traditional ruler for providing an enabling environment for the outreach and prayed for his continued good health and longevity. He disclosed that the Awo outreach was the second HIRD programme organised by the Scheme in 2026 and encouraged residents to take full advantage of the opportunity to improve their health and wellbeing.

A major highlight of the programme was a comprehensive health education session delivered by members of the Medical CDS Group. Dr. Anetor Euler (OS/25C/0026) sensitised participants on the dangers of hypertension, identifying hereditary factors, excessive salt intake and repeated use of cooking oil as some of the risk factors. He emphasised the importance of regular medical check-ups for early detection and effective management of the condition.

Also speaking, Nurse Susan Olorunusi (OS/25C/0837) cautioned residents against self-medication, advising them to seek professional medical attention whenever they experience unusual symptoms.

Medical Laboratory Scientist Michael Olayiwola (OS/25B/4373) educated participants on diabetes prevention, urging them to adopt healthier lifestyles by reducing excessive sugar consumption, maintaining balanced diets and avoiding harmful habits such as excessive alcohol intake.

Mr. Rotimi Oloruntoba, who gave the vote of thanks, encouraged community members to adhere strictly to the health advice provided and make conscious efforts towards maintaining healthy living.

The outreach also featured free medical screenings and consultations conducted by corps members of the Medical CDS groups from Osogbo and Egbedore Local Government Areas.

Beneficiaries received blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, medical consultations and prescribed medications at no cost.