NMA advises FCT residents on hygiene, vigilance
By Aderogba George
The FCT chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA-FCT) has urged residents to maintain a clean environment and adopt healthy lifestyles to help prevent the spread of diseases.
Dr Emeka Ayogu, Chairman of NMA-FCT, gave the advice on Tuesday during a medical outreach in Sauka community, Airport Road, FCT.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the outreach was part of activities marking the association’s 2025 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference.
Ayogu stressed that although some diseases are not preventable, many are, and residents should focus on reducing risk factors through proper hygiene and healthy living.
“Residents must carry the cap of prevention by keeping a clean environment and adopting healthy habits.
“Many diseases can be avoided with simple lifestyle changes,” he said.
Ayogu explained that the outreach was targeted at underserved communities and aimed at helping the poor and vulnerable who struggled to access healthcare due to poverty, lack of information, or geographic barriers.
“This outreach is part of our Corporate Social Responsibility.
“We are giving back to society by bringing healthcare to the doorsteps of people who need it the most,” he said.
He said that more than 200 residents of Sauka community received free treatment for various health conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, malaria, diarrhoea, peptic ulcer disease, respiratory tract infections, musculoskeletal pain, common infections, eye conditions, and more.
“Some cases of diabetes, for example, are lifestyle-related. With better habits, they can be prevented.
“That’s why we are appealing to FCT residents to be vigilant and proactive about their health,” Ayogu added.
He also called on the government to significantly increase funding for the health sector.
According to him, Nigeria currently allocates less than 5 per cent of its national budget to health, far below the 15 per cent recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“Nigeria is a country burdened by disease, and yet healthcare is underfunded. With a population of more than 200 million, the government must do more to meet the health needs of its people,” he said.(NAN)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
