Former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has underscored the importance of good health as the bedrock of education, productivity and sustainable development, saying no society can achieve meaningful progress without a healthy population.
Madumere made the remarks while addressing participants at the Faculty of Health Science Students’ Association (FOHSSA) Free Medical Outreach held at Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri.
He described preventive healthcare initiatives such as free medical outreaches as essential in reducing the burden of disease through early detection, timely intervention and improved public health awareness.
The former deputy governor commended the leadership and members of FOHSSA for extending healthcare services beyond the classroom, describing the outreach as a demonstration of leadership, compassion and commitment to community service.
He encouraged the students to remain focused on their academic pursuits while sustaining their dedication to humanitarian service, noting that such values would distinguish them as future healthcare professionals.
Madumere also praised the range of medical services offered during the outreach, including Body Mass Index (BMI) assessments, blood pressure and vital signs checks, HIV screening, eye examinations, blood sugar tests, malaria screening, medical consultations, health education and counselling.
He noted that the initiative would provide much-needed healthcare support to residents with limited access to quality medical services.
The former deputy governor further lauded OCCEEJ Diagnostics, sponsors and other partners for supporting the programme, stressing that collaboration between educational institutions, healthcare providers and development partners is critical to improving healthcare delivery in the state.
Speaking on his vision for Imo State, Madumere said his Journey of Grace initiative has developed a comprehensive blueprint aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and improving the welfare of residents.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting programmes that promote quality healthcare, youth empowerment and community development, while expressing optimism about a brighter future for Owerri Zone.