Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A recent free health camp in Lagos provided essential medical services to over 500 residents, addressing prevalent health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
The camp, a collaborative effort between IMAN, StarCare, and the Indian Consulate, offered free doctor consultations, blood pressure and BMI check-ups, blood sugar screenings, and medications.
According to the Consul-General of India in Lagos, Shri Chandramouli Kern, such health camps are crucial in addressing basic health needs, especially for those who cannot afford medical care.
The Chairman and Managing Director of StarCare International Hospital, Dr Ashraff Mohammad, emphasized the camp’s mission to combat prevalent health issues and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on medical tourism.
“Our goal is to reverse the trend of medical tourism by offering quality care locally,” Dr. Mohammad 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.
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 emphasized the need for partnerships to improve Nigeria’s health sector, adding that India is a leader in healthcare and technology.
Khan noted that if the Nigerian government collaborates with Indian institutions, both countries can attract world-class hospitals, reduce medical tourism, and conserve foreign exchange.
The Vice President of IMAN, Sabir Ali, highlighted the association’s broader social impact, emphasizing the association’s aim to provide relief to those who cannot afford medical care.
He underscored the dire need for accessible healthcare in Lagos and beyond, noting that the association will ensure the sustainability of the health initiative to improve life expectancy in Nigeria.
