HIRD: NYSC Offers Free Medicare to 498 Indigent Persons in Anambra Community

By Praise Chinecherem

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has provided free healthcare services to 498 indigent locals in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The patients received the medicare at the flag-off of its First Quarter Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme.

The free medical outreach, held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Dr. Chris Nwabueze Ngige Civic Centre Alor, the community, included diagnosis, blood pressure checks, sugar level tests, eye examinations and drug administration.

Inaugurating the free healthcare, Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma, the NYSC Anambra State Coordinator, on behalf of the Director General, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu the outreach was a demonstration of NYSC commitment to grassroots development.

She underscored the importance of preventive healthcare, urging community members to adopt healthy living practices such as proper nutrition, regular exercise and good hygiene.

“The HIRD programme, launched by the National Youth Service Corps in 2014, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of underserved communities across Nigeria.

“This initiative leverages the expertise and dedication of NYSC’s Corps medical personnel—doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals—to provide free medical services, health education, and disease prevention campaigns to rural populations.

“Beyond providing medical services, we are here to advocate for a healthy living lifestyle. We must emphasize the importance of preventive healthcare to foster healthier lives and empower individuals to take charge of their health,” she added.

The programme attracted notable dignitaries, including Hon. Barr. Ebuka Igwe, Member representing Idemili South at the Anambra State House of Assembly, who commended the NYSC for the initiative.

“This health initiative is a noble one, and we are grateful to the NYSC for bringing such a impactful programme to our community,” he said.

Chairman of Idemili South LGA, Hon. Amaka Obi expressed her excitement over the large turnout and praised the NYSC for its dedication to rural development.

“I am thrilled to see the overwhelming response from our people. This initiative is a testament to the NYSC’s commitment to improving lives, and I particularly commend the State Coordinator for approving this programme in our local government area,” she remarked.

Woman President General of Alor Community, Lady Ify Unokwe also lauded the NYSC for its grassroots-oriented approach.

“This programme is a clear indication that the NYSC is a platform for grassroots development. We are deeply grateful for bringing this initiative to Alor Community,” she said.

Other special guests at the event included Dr. Vera Nwadinobi, Chairman, Anambra State Urban Development Board (ASUDEB), Mrs. Jane Egbe, Representative of NAFDAC, and Hon. Emeka Silas, Chairman of the Okudo Foundation.

The HIRD programme, which has positively impacted millions of Nigerians since its inception, continues to address critical health challenges such as malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and maternal and child health issues.

With the successful execution of this edition in Alor, the NYSC has reaffirmed its role as a vital force in Nigeria’s healthcare and community development landscape.