Residents of Oka Akoko in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State benefited from free medical services as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) flagged off the 2026 Second Quarter of the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) outreach programme on Wednesday.
The programme, which is one of the focal point of the NYSC community development interventions, was designed to provide quality healthcare services to rural populations through volunteer corps medical personnel.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony, the Executive Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government, Hon. Ayorinde Ezekiel Ajana, represented by Hon. Felix Ajakaya, commended the NYSC for bringing free healthcare services directly to the people. He described the initiative as a timely intervention that complements efforts to improve the wellbeing of rural communities.
According to him, HIRD has continued to demonstrate the commitment of the NYSC to community development by reaching vulnerable populations who may not have easy access to quality medical care. He appreciated the scheme for its sustained support to communities across Ondo State and assured the NYSC of the Local Government’s readiness to continue providing the necessary support for the success of the programme.
Hon. Ajakaya also encouraged residents of Oka Akoko and neighbouring communities to take full advantage of the free medical services provided during the outreach.
In her address, the Ondo State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi Bakare, represented by Mr. Amusan Kayode James, described HIRD as a strategic intervention established by the NYSC to bridge healthcare gaps in underserved rural communities.
She explained that the programme mobilizes corps medical personnel to provide free medical consultations, health education, diagnosis and treatment for rural dwellers who may be unable to access healthcare services due to distance or other limitations.
The State Coordinator urged residents to make effective use of the opportunity by freely discussing their health concerns with the medical team, noting that improved healthcare access remains vital to community development and healthy living.
Mrs. Bakare also appreciated community leaders, stakeholders, camp officials and corps members who volunteered their services to ensure the success of the exercise.
The event attracted several dignitaries including the traditional ruler of Oka Akoko, who was represented by High Chief Ileyemi, Chief Olofin and the representative of the Director, South West Area Office I, Mr. Ayelagbe K. O.
The medical outreach, which is designed to last for two days would feature free consultations, health screening, treatment and health education for members of the host community and surrounding areas.
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