In a game-changing step towards sustainable grassroots healthcare, Idah Club 6575 (IC6575) launched a transformative medical outreach program that prioritizes local empowerment over temporary relief, marking a bold new chapter in the community’s health journey.
Held at the Idah Club House under the leadership of the club’s Medical and Sanitation Committee, the outreach program represents a decisive shift from traditional short-term health interventions to a more strategic, long-term model focused on building capacity at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) level.
While past medical missions in the region often focused on one-off treatments, this year’s outreach — themed “Improving Integration of the Care of Non-Communicable Diseases into Healthcare Delivery at Primary Health Centres of Idah LGA” — was a clear departure from the norm. Led by Dr. Ibrahim Benjamin, the initiative was designed to confront the root problems of chronic disease management in rural areas: poor screening, lack of follow-up, and inadequate PHC capacity.
Approved by the club’s executive council in May 2024, the outreach plan targeted the most pressing health threats — particularly hypertension and diabetes — by equipping healthcare workers with the skills and tools to diagnose, treat, and manage these conditions at the local level.
A total of 38 healthcare workers from all 10 wards of Idah LGA received immersive training using audiovisual presentations and practical demonstrations. The sessions focused on integrating non-communicable disease (NCD) care into routine PHC operations, emphasizing prevention, early detection, and long-term disease management.
To ensure that the training translates into real community impact, IC6575 provided each ward with a medical starter pack: one glucometer, a sphygmomanometer, a stethoscope, and 50 test strips — tools essential for frontline care. The educational arm of the outreach was reinforced with health calendars and information leaflets to support ongoing learning at the community level.
The event attracted top dignitaries and leaders from both political and traditional institutions, reflecting its importance to the region. Alhaji Halilu Alfa, Executive Chairman of Idah LGA, formally opened the event, accompanied by health advisers and senior local government officials. The Attah Igala’s royal blessings were represented by Onu Edeke, while IC6575’s Vice President, Arc. Justice Akwu, led the club’s delegation.
Key donations added muscle to the mission. Pharm. Sunday Agamah provided medications to be used at PHC centres, while Dr. Agada Okpanachi funded glucometer strips worth ₦140,000 — a testament to the shared vision of a healthier Idah.
By moving beyond short-term charity to long-term capacity building, IC6575 has created a replicable model for community healthcare transformation. The outreach exemplifies how grassroots mobilization, expert leadership, and strategic resource deployment can redefine what’s possible in public health.
Dr. Ibrahim Benjamin and his team expressed deep gratitude to the club for enabling such a forward-thinking initiative. “We’re not just treating patients for a day,” Dr. Benjamin remarked, “we’re strengthening the very system that will keep them healthy for years to come.”As residents of Idah reflect on the success of this outreach, one truth stands clear: real transformation begins from the ground up. IC6575 has not only brought healthcare closer to the people — it has empowered the people to take charge of their health, one ward at a time.
Health is not just wealth — it is dignity, equity, and the foundation of a thriving community.