The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by providing free, quality healthcare services to all residents, starting with a targeted community-based medical outreach for security personnel.
The initiative, flagged off at the Mile One Police Station in Port Harcourt, was organized by the Rivers State Hospital Management Board in collaboration with Professor Kelsey Harrison Hospital. It was specifically tailored for officers of the Nigerian Police Force.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Comfort Mekele Igwe, Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, emphasized that the outreach is part of the government’s broader strategy to improve healthcare access particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children under five.
“This initiative aligns with our government’s commitment to ensuring universal access to quality healthcare. We recognize the importance of community-based healthcare in reaching the most vulnerable. Our government is dedicated to making healthcare a fundamental right, not a privilege.”
Dr. Igwe further highlighted the importance of ensuring the health of police officers who serve the state under challenging conditions.
“We do not want to hear that a police officer slumps and dies on duty. You are doing a great job for the state and the nation, and we owe you accessible and quality healthcare,” she added.
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She also expressed appreciation to the Professor Kelsey Harrison Hospital and the Hospital Management Board for their partnership in organizing the outreach, calling on other stakeholders to support such interventions.
Dr. Bright Ogbonda, Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State Hospital Management Board, explained that the outreach is part of an ongoing, monthly health programme carried out across all 23 local government areas of the state.
“This is part of our regular outreach programme across secondary healthcare facilities. While our monthly outreach has limited services, our biannual programmes are more extensive and include surgeries, eye care, dental care, and physiotherapy,” he said.
Dr. Ogbonda emphasized that the initiative brings healthcare directly to the people in their workplaces and communities, noting that many residents, including police officers, are often too busy to seek medical attention regularly.
“The Mile One Police Station has been particularly supportive of Kelsey Harrison Hospital, especially in handling security-related concerns. This outreach is our way of giving back,” he noted.
He added that the outreach will continue to other key locations, including the Mile One Market and its environs, to encourage proactive health awareness and screenings. Patients requiring specialized care will be referred to Professor Kelsey Harrison Hospital.
Receiving the medical team, Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Mile One Police Station, Francis Ogbechie, expressed deep gratitude to the Ministry of Health and the healthcare workers for bringing medical services directly to the police.
“I’m short of words. Since joining the Nigerian Police Force, this is the first time I’m witnessing something like this. We are always on duty and rarely find time to visit the hospital.
“This outreach at our doorstep is a huge relief. I’ve urged my officers to take full advantage of it.”
He thanked the government for prioritizing the wellbeing of officers and prayed for continued support and blessings upon the Ministry and its partners.
The community-based medical outreach is part of the Rivers State Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare system, promote early diagnosis, and enhance community wellbeing.
