By Obianuju Azukaego
No fewer than 120 indigent residents of Achalla Community in Awka North Local Government Area (LGA) have benefited from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD), a programme designed to improve access to quality healthcare in underserved communities.
The second-quarter 2026 medical outreach was flagged off recently at the Achalla Town Hall by the NYSC Anambra State Coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, who expressed appreciation to the community for embracing the initiative.
Mrs. Ojisua described the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) as one of the NYSC’s flagship community development programmes, aimed at bringing free and essential healthcare services to rural populations with limited access to medical care.
During the outreach, beneficiaries received free medical consultations, laboratory tests, eye screening, treatment and medications.
The President-General of the Achalla Development Union, Mr. Enukora, and the Chairman of the Community Health Committee, Mr. William Nwude, commended the NYSC for extending the healthcare intervention to the community, describing it as a timely initiative that has improved access to essential medical services for vulnerable residents.
Also speaking, the Assistant Director in charge of Community Development Service (CDS), Mr. Tony Ibekwe, explained the objectives of the programme, encouraging residents to take full advantage of the free healthcare services whenever such opportunities arise.
The outreach underscores the NYSC’s commitment to complementing government efforts to improve healthcare delivery and promote healthy living in rural communities across Anambra State.
Obianuju Azukaego is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
