Osun State First Lady, Mrs. Titilola Adeleke, has inaugurated a transformative health campaign, urging Osun residents to utilize the free diabetes and hypertension screenings sponsored by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and World Health Organisation. Speaking in Osogbo during the launch of “Project 10 Million,” an initiative aimed at screening 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes, Adeleke underscored the urgent need for nationwide action on these prevalent non-communicable diseases.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Adeleke noted that hypertension and diabetes collectively contribute to 27% of annual deaths in Nigeria. “Project 10 Million is a life-saving health initiative designed to counter the surging impacts of non-communicable diseases, particularly hypertension and diabetes. An estimated 17% of Nigerians aged 30 to 70 face the risk of dying from these diseases if left unchecked,” she stated. The First Lady’s “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers” campaign aims to encourage Nigerians to monitor and control their health metrics, thereby preventing severe health outcomes.
Running from October 28 to November 3, the campaign will target approximately 10 million Nigerians nationwide for screening, offering free tests, immediate counseling, and guidance on managing these conditions. Emphasizing the significance of the initiative, Osun’s Commissioner for Health, Mr. Jola Akinola, reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing public health services, adding that the campaign aligns with Osun State’s objective to improve healthcare accessibility and awareness.
Adeleke urged the community to leverage this unique opportunity: “Knowing your numbers is a critical first step in taking control of your health. Together, let’s reduce the burden of these diseases and build a healthier future for our communities.”
The Project 10 Million campaign promises a large-scale impact, spreading crucial awareness about non-communicable diseases and potentially saving thousands of lives by providing accessible screening to millions across Nigeria.