By correspondent in Minna.
The Sani Bello Foundation, in collaboration with the Graceland Health Development Foundation, Kaduna, organized its annual free medical and surgical outreach at Kontagora General Hospital, Niger State, during the weekend.
The event commemorated the 82nd birthday of Col. Sani Bello (rtd), former Military Administrator of old Kano State, and provided critical health interventions to patients from across the country.
Speaking at the event, retired Col. Bello, Chairman and Founder of the Sani Bello Foundation, described the outreach as his way of giving back to society.
“The five-day free surgical outreach is my annual birthday gift, aimed at providing relief to those in need,” he said, emphasizing his preference for supporting healthcare over extravagant celebrations. He urged wealthy Nigerians to assist vulnerable populations.
Usman Sani Bello, Vice Chairman of the Foundation, disclosed that over 500 surgeries had been performed so far, with more expected by the event’s conclusion. “This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing the well-being of citizens,” he added.
Dr. Tort Joseph, Chairman of the Graceland Health Development Foundation, praised the partnership, emphasizing its impact on the less privileged. “Our collaboration with the Sani Bello Foundation reflects our shared commitment to assisting vulnerable individuals,” he said.
Providing updates on the outreach, Dr. Zakari Ikani, Director-General of the Sani Bello Foundation, reported that over 500 patients had been treated, with 1,255 medications dispensed, 1,000 eyeglasses provided, and 122 cataract surgeries completed, with more ongoing.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
