The Indian Muslim Association of Nigeria (IMAN) in partnership with StarCare International Hospital has provided free essential health care services to communities in Lagos State.
The free health camp offered residents free doctor consultations, blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) check-ups, blood sugar screenings and free medications.
Speaking during the medical outreach, the Consul-General of India in Lagos, Shri Chandramouli Kern, who noted the impact of collaboration on public health, said such health camps are crucial in addressing basic health needs, especially for those who cannot afford medical care.
He explained that the initiative offered free screenings and medications while demonstrating the symbiotic relationship between IMAN, StarCare, and the community.
The Consul General also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s health sector under President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda and pledged continued collaboration between India and Nigeria in advancing health care.
The Chairman and Managing Director of StarCare International Hospital, Dr Ashraff Mohammad, emphasised the camp’s mission to combat prevalent health issues like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity while reducing Nigeria’s reliance on medical tourism.
“Our goal is to reverse the trend of medical tourism by offering quality care locally. Many Nigerians cannot afford treatment due to poverty; we aim to fill that gap for underserved communities,” Ashraff said.
He urged the Nigerian government to invest more in basic healthcare infrastructure and support such initiatives, noting that healthcare should not be a luxury, but accessible to all in basic treatments for conditions like blood pressure and diabetes.
IMAN President, Jawed Khan explained that the initiative was borne out of the need to help indigent people access healthcare, especially as the cost of obtaining treatment is on the rise.
He said over 500 people across Lagos State were screened and given free medical services to cut down on out-of-pocket expenses in accessing healthcare services.
Khan emphasised the need for partnerships to improve Nigeria’s health sector, adding that India is a leader in health care and technology.
He notes that if the Nigerian government collaborates with Indian institutions, both countries can attract world-class hospitals, reduce medical tourism, and conserve foreign exchange.
Also speaking, the Vice President, IMAN, Sabir Ali, highlighted the association’s broader social impact, emphasising the association’s aim to provide relief to those who cannot afford medical care.
He underscored the dire need for accessible health care in Lagos and beyond, noting that the association will ensure the sustainability of the health initiative to improve life expectancy in Nigeria.
SOURCE: GUARDIAN NEWSPAPER
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