The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Kogi, Mr Mohammed Imam, on Saturday said he has commenced free medical services to the people of Kogi/Koton-Karfe Local Government Area.
Imam spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of a four-day free medical services offered some patients in three designated centres.
He told NAN that the medical service was initially scheduled to hold for two days, but was extended for two more days to accommodate more people due to massive turnouts.
According to him, many people are living with serious diseases, but due to lack of financial ability, they could not go to the hospitals for treatment.
“We recorded massive turnouts of no fewer than 1,000 patients on the first day, and much more on the second day.
“Hence, the need to extend the service for two more days.
“The programme which started on Wednesday ends today.
“Our target is to offer free medical services to about 5,000 patients in a whole.
“We have made provision for free medical test and treatment.
“Essential drugs are being given to patients diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, asthma, eyes defects, ulcer, high blood pressure and other common related diseases.
“Some particular drugs and medical equipment have also been donated to hospitals in my constituency for the treatment of patients after today.
“It is not enough to distribute food items, but, we have gone the extra miles to offer free medical treatment.
“It is when you are alive and healthy that you can eat food,’’ the commissioner said.
Imam commended Gov. Yahaya Bello for his agenda aimed at transforming the state and improving the wellbeing of the citizens. (NAN)
