In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare and community development, the Galaxy Clique Offa commissioned the Behavioral Center, Offa, today, Thursday, December 26, 2024.
The center, dedicated to mental health services, was inaugurated alongside the 5th Annual Colloquium themed “The Burden of Kidney Disease in Nigeria.”
The keynote address at the colloquium was delivered by Professor Timothy Olarewaju, a renowned Consultant Nephrologist from the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH).
The Behavioral Center, Offa, marks a critical milestone in addressing mental health challenges in Kwara State and beyond. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the center offers counseling, therapy, and rehabilitation services to ensure accessible and affordable mental healthcare for the community.
This initiative reinforced the Galaxy Clique Offa’s commitment to holistic healthcare and community empowerment.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Aminah El-Imam, the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, representing Governor Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, commended the project.
She said: “Offa is known for excellence and high standards. Whenever we take on a project, we deliver world-class results. This center is a continuation of the excellence we are known for.”
Dr. El-Imam also noted that other communities in Kwara State have sought advice on replicating such community-driven healthcare initiatives.
The colloquium’s theme drew attention to the rising burden of kidney disease in Nigeria. Professor Olarewaju highlighted that chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 23-46 million Nigerians, with many unaware of their condition. CKD disproportionately impacts young adults in their productive years and poses significant financial and social challenges due to its self-funded treatment nature.
He spoke on Symptoms of CKD, which included Loss of appetite, nausea, swelling, hypertension, drowsiness, and infections, as well as prevention which are early diagnosis, public awareness, and incorporating CKD screening into primary care.
He also recommended Improving accessibility to kidney care, including kidney replacement therapy (KRT) in the National Health Scheme (NHS), and increasing funding for kidney-related research.
He emphasized: “Management of advanced-stage kidney disease is capital-intensive, making prevention the most effective strategy.”
Sir (Prince) Robert Olusoji Olagunju, the Aremo of Offaland and the Chairman of the event, praised the club for their dedication, stating: “This initiative showcases the excellence Offa is known for. On behalf of Olofa of Offa and the council, we express our gratitude.”
Alhaji Muideen Olaniyi Salako, National President of Offa Descendants Union (ODU), referenced the club’s past contributions, including the donation of a patrol van, and expressed optimism about future projects like establishing a dialysis center in Offa.
Aare Tayo Shittu, Aare Aniwura of Offaland and Director General of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), commended the club’s efforts, highlighting the role of community-driven healthcare solutions in complementing government efforts.
Offa pharmacists, represented by Pharmacist Faremi Segun and Hajia Ganiya Arowosaye, applauded the Behavioral Center’s launch.
They, however, raised concerns about the availability of unregulated drugs, calling on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to curb the free flow of pharmaceuticals contributing to addiction.
The event drew notable attendees, including: Dr. Abdulmalik Abdulraheem, Secretary of the Kwara State Hospital Management Board; Alhaji Azeez Salako, President of the Offa Descendants Union; Barrister Segun Olawoyin, Chief Akinrogun of Offaland; Isiaka Opeloyeru Lawal, Deputy State Commander of Operations and Training, Kwara State of NDLEA among others.
