Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), Aba, has become a hub of activity as a team of 23 medical experts from Belgium, along with volunteers from the ABSUTH community, conducts a two-week free medical mission for indigent patients with various health challenges. This initiative, organized by Revive International, is a follow-up to a similar mission held last year at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia, sponsored by Abian philanthropist Mr. Smith Oriaku.
The team, composed of surgeons, physiologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, is offering surgical operations and general health treatments, including procedures for conditions such as Thyroid and hernia, all at no cost to the patients. Dr. Carl, one of the experts, explained that the initiative aims to provide medical services ranging from clinical examinations, drugs, and treatments to surgical operations, all at no cost to patients. He disclosed that each team member financed their participation, with additional support through donations from individuals and organizations in Belgium, with no financial backing from the Belgian government or other international entities.
Expressing gratitude to Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, the Ministry of Health, and the ABSUTH community, Dr. Carl commended the enabling environment and hospitality extended to the team. He praised the resilience and cheerfulness of Nigerians, noting that despite the health challenges faced by many, the people remain positive, which has made their work easier.
Dr. Hartword, another member of the team, commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of both the patients and the ABSUTH staff, highlighting the professionalism evident throughout the mission.
Prof. Mrs. Ijeoma Nduka, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of ABSUTH, extended her thanks to Governor Otti for facilitating the return of the medical mission to Abia State. She appreciated the team’s humanitarian efforts and reassured the public that the hospital would ensure the fair and efficient management of the two-week program. Prof. Nduka emphasized that the process would remain transparent and orderly, without favoritism or shortcuts, and urged residents to take full advantage of the opportunity.
Mrs. Nwakanma Celine Ogechi, a nurse at ABSUTH and a volunteer with the mission, reiterated the CMD’s assurances, emphasizing that the process is seamless and free from any form of manipulation.
One of the beneficiaries of the mission, Mr. Nathaniel Onyebuenyi Ajuzieogu, a tailor from Amaiyi Umuchu, Ugwunagbo Local Government Area, shared his joy and gratitude. Having previously undergone two unsuccessful hernia surgeries, Mr. Ajuzieogu was excited to receive treatment and thanked Governor Otti for collaborating with Revive International to uplift the lives of less privileged Abians.
The two-week mission is expected to significantly improve the health of many Abians, offering much-needed medical attention to those who might otherwise be unable to afford treatment.
