By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Plateau State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and its innovative programmes aimed at improving youth welfare and promoting healthcare delivery in rural communities.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms, gave the assurance during the flag-off of the NYSC Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) held at Zandi, Jos East Local Government Area. The event was jointly organized by the Ministry and the NYSC.
Declaring the free medical outreach open, Ashoms said the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang remains dedicated to partnering with the NYSC and other relevant agencies to enhance access to quality healthcare, particularly in underserved areas.
He explained that the HIRD outreach aligns with the government’s broader vision of delivering accessible, affordable, and community-focused healthcare services across Plateau State.
“The Mutfwang administration is people-focused and dedicated to touching lives in tangible ways,” Ashoms stated. “Supporting NYSC’s health initiatives perfectly aligns with our resolve to take government presence to the grassroots, where it is most needed.”
Ashoms, who hails from Zandi, expressed delight that the outreach was hosted in his hometown, describing it as symbolic of the government’s commitment to improving lives at the local level. He urged residents to take full advantage of the consultations and follow medical advice, noting that healthy citizens are vital to a productive society.
The Commissioner also commended the NYSC for sustaining the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers since its inception, describing it as one of the Corps’ most impactful community interventions that strengthens the bond between corps members and host communities.
NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Yavala Jonathan, said the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers, introduced in 2014, was established as part of the Corps’ corporate social responsibility to provide free medical services to rural populations with limited access to healthcare facilities.
He revealed that over the past eleven years, hundreds of thousands of Nigerians have benefited from free consultations, treatments, and health sensitization programmes under the scheme.
“The outreach has reached communities such as Lur in Kanke, Kwall and Miango in Bassa, and Angware in Jos East,” Jonathan said. “Our team comprises doctors, pharmacists, optometrists, dentists, nurses, and other professionals who volunteer their expertise to serve humanity.”
He commended Hon. Ashoms for his logistical support and collaboration, calling for continued partnerships to expand the programme’s reach across the state.
Beneficiaries, including Adagum Zandi, Goje Azi, community youth leader Itse Ishaku Sani, and Headmaster of Zandi Eckan Primary School, Ajiji Yohanna Bature, expressed appreciation to Governor Mutfwang, Hon. Ashoms, and the NYSC for providing free healthcare to their community.
One of the facilitators, Nurse Dorcas Babalola, praised the residents for their cooperation and orderly conduct during the exercise.
The outreach featured free medical consultations, distribution of essential drugs, dental and eye examinations, and health education sessions—marking another milestone in the NYSC’s ongoing efforts to promote community wellness and service across Plateau State.
