By Ismaila Jimoh, Abuja
In a step aimed at celebrating this year’s Workers Day, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA has organised free medical outreach for its workers.
The two- day medical outreach which witnessed large turn out of staff offered free diabetes, hypertension, and other sensitive tests with drugs.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the workers’ free medical outreach on Thursday, FCT Head of Civil Service Mrs. Nancy Nathan, said the exercise is meant to help staff access free healthcare services.
She urged civil servants to make regular medical checks a priority, describing hypertension and diabetes as “silent killers” that often strike without warning.
Nathan explained that many sudden deaths attributed to no apparent illness are typically linked to unmanaged hypertension or diabetes.
“The initiative is a call to action for all of us. Health is wealth,” a ministry representative said. “You often hear, ‘There was nothing wrong with him. He just went to work, came back, slept, and didn’t wake up.’ In most cases, it is hypertension or diabetes.”she said.
In her remarks, the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe called on the workers and residents to go for regular medical screening and strict adherence to prescribed medication for those already diagnosed.
She said the initiative was in line with President Bola Tinubu renewed health services being implemented by the minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike.
Fasawe said that benefits provided during the programme will continue at the renewed staff clinic after it ends.
“Civil servants are reminded that health insurance is a key entitlement funded through monthly salary deductions.
“How many of you know that a portion of your salary is deducted every month for health insurance? You know it. We have a desk here—get your PIN, get your cards.
“Under the scheme, civil servants are entitled to quality healthcare, including surgical services when needed. The system is designed to support patients who require surgery.
“More than 400 people attended. Of those, 270 received eyeglasses, while many others were treated for hypertension and diabetes.
“The staff clinic will remain open to civil servants who know their medication regimen for hypertension or diabetes. Access requires a staff ID and health insurance card”.
Fasawe also said they are working with hospitals and primary healthcare centres to ensure that enrollees receive prompt and quality care under the insurance scheme..
“This is a Renewed Hope administration, and we have a clear mandate from the Minister, Nyesom Wike, to ensure that civil servants are treated in a civil and dignified manner,”
