The Neo Child Initiative for Africa has delivered free healthcare services to over 250 children in Makoko, Lagos State, as part of its annual outreach programme.
The initiative, held earlier this week, targeted underserved children and teenagers aged zero to 17, providing essential medical services to address the community’s health challenges.
The outreach included malaria screenings, dental consultations, immunisations, deworming, nutritional assessments, health education, and free medication.
These services aimed to tackle hygiene and sanitation issues prevalent in the area, as revealed by a baseline survey conducted by TNCI earlier this year.
TNCI’s Senior Programme Coordinator, Esther Nwaiwu, emphasised the importance of healthcare access in Makoko.
“We discovered significant hygiene and sanitation issues during our survey. Today, we are addressing these with free consultations, medications, and health education. Our goal is to ensure these children thrive despite their challenging environment,” Nwaiwu said.
She added that the initiative was not a one-off effort.
“We’ll return in three months to assess progress and plan the next phase. We are also collaborating with Lagos Mainland primary healthcare centres and the Yaba LCDA to ensure follow-ups for cases identified today. Our programmes are community-based and align with government efforts, ensuring sustainability and impact.”
Nwaiwu stressed the need for government support to scale TNCI’s programmes.
“With government backing, we can extend our reach to over 1,000 children, ensuring no child in Makoko is left behind,” she said.
TNCI’s Assistant Health Lead, Eunice Adeyeye, highlighted the initiative’s focus on preventive healthcare.
“Our slogan, ‘Our Today for Their Tomorrow,’ inspires us to go beyond treating illnesses. This outreach emphasises prevention through vaccinations, dental cleanings, and health education. We want these children to grow up healthy and meet global health standards,” Adeyeye explained.
A Makoko resident and mother expressed her gratitude for the initiative.
“They’re helping my children and stepchildren stay healthy. The treatments they’ve received here have reduced how often they fall sick. I am truly thankful for this programme.
“This initiative is making a remarkable impact. With government support, it could reach even more children in need.”