By Olasunkanmi Akoni

A Non- Governmental Orgainsation, NGO, Love for Health, and Principal of Rolex Comprehensive School, have called on governments at all levels of the need to increase public awareness and sensitization over health check initiatives among children for early detection and treatment of diseases in their body.

They also called on parents and guardians to pay more attention to the health status of their children and wards in order to ensure wellbeing as well as save lives.

Dr. Yusuf Haroun, Chief Executive Officer, and Founder, of Love for Health Organisation, and Principal of Rolex Comprehensive School, Chinyere Akabogu-Onwuka, made the call at a health awareness and well-being program, organised to commemorate the 2025 St. Valentine’s Day celebration, in collaboration with Rolex Comprehensive Group of Schools, Iba Local Council Development Area, of the state.

The event, themed: “Love Your Health,” attended by Proprietress, Rolex Comprehensive School, parents, teachers, and other guests, was aimed at educating and empowering students, women, and young girls on critical health issues, with free medical checkups, engaging discussions and interactive sessions.
Speaking on the occasion, Haroun, who was represented by Mr. Wale Anthony, underscored the importance of health as the foundation for a happy and productive life.

He stated: “At Love for Health, we believe that health is the cornerstone of success and happiness. Our organization is committed to equipping the girl child, women, and students with the knowledge and resources they need to take control of their health.

Haroun noted that the group which was established in 2008 has been at the forefront of providing healthcare services, especially for women and girls.

He stated; “We are a team of passionate health professionals dedicated to improving healthcare accessibility. Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with about 512 deaths per 100,000 live births.

“Through our initiatives, we aim to reduce this number by providing free clinical services and advocating for gender equality and reproductive health.”

He further explained that the organisation also offers support for victims of gender-based violence, providing counseling and care.

“Women face significant challenges when it comes to accessing quality healthcare and support.

“According to the recent statistics from the United Nations and UNICEF, Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with approximately 512 deaths per 100,000 live births.

“This is due in part to the lack of access to healthcare facilities and skilled health care professionals, particularly in rural areas.

“Gender-based violence is also a pervasive issue, with a recent survey showing that 30 per cent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, and 14 per cent have experienced physical and psychological trauma.

“Through education and free health services, we strive to bridge this gap,” Harun stated.

Haroun, explained the significance of early detection in preventing chronic illnesses. “Many diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes, can go unnoticed for years. By detecting them early, we can take preventive measures before they become life-threatening.”

Akabogu-Onwuka, stressed the link between self-love and health, adding that loving your health means loving yourself, encouraging students to adopt a holistic approach to well-being, covering physical health, mental health, and personal safety.

“We are here to celebrate love your health having younger people together, letting them know why they should love their health and keeping the right environment.

“We advised parents to take their children’s health seriously and avoid self- medication. And take them for regular health check-up, especially when they show symptoms and know when to have rest and right food at the right time.

“This initiative needs to be taken higher by governments. It exposes the pupils to the right and wrong ways of handling health issues, especially, concerning illicit drugs which could lead to mental hazards. Government should organize these kinds of initiative more and taken it to schools.”

She highlighted key aspects of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as balanced nutrition, hydration, exercise, and mental wellness.

A major highlight of the event was the free medical screening, where students and community members were assessed for potential health risks.