The Kwara State Government has commended the Galaxy Clique Offa for its exemplary contributions to healthcare and community development.
Representing Governor Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq at the commissioning of the Behavioral Center in Offa and the 5th Annual Colloquium, Dr. Aminah El-Imam, the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, described the initiative as a testament to the self-reliant spirit and excellence of the Offa community.
The dual events, held today, December 26, 2024, showcased the club’s dedication to addressing critical health issues, including mental health and kidney disease, through grassroots efforts and strategic partnerships.
Speaking at the event, Dr. El-Imam highlighted Offa’s tradition of self-driven development, stating: “Offa is known for excellence and high standards. Whenever we embark on a project, we deliver world-class results. This Behavioral Center reflects the commitment of the Offa community to tackle pressing health issues head-on.”
She further emphasized that the project serves as an inspiration for other communities, noting that several groups have sought her advice on replicating Offa’s model of community-led healthcare initiatives.
The 5th Annual Colloquium, themed “The Burden of Kidney Disease in Nigeria,” brought experts and community leaders together to address the alarming rise in kidney-related illnesses.
The keynote speaker, Professor Timothy Olarewaju, a Consultant Nephrologist from the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), delivered an enlightening presentation on prevention, early diagnosis, and management strategies for kidney disease.
Professor Olarewaju revealed sobering statistics, including the fact that 12–20% of Nigerians are affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), often without awareness.
He called for increased public education, improved access to care, and government intervention in funding kidney replacement therapies (KRT).
“Management of advanced kidney disease is capital-intensive, but prevention and early diagnosis remain the most cost-effective strategies,” Professor Olarewaju noted.
Dr. El-Imam’s remarks were echoed by other dignitaries at the event, including: Sir (Prince) Robert Olusoji Olagunju, Aremo of Offaland, who chaired the occasion, praised Galaxy Clique Offa’s visionary efforts, saying: “This initiative exemplifies the excellence Offa is known for. On behalf of the Olofa of Offa and the council, we express our gratitude and encourage similar projects from other organizations.
Alhaji Muideen Olaniyi Salako, National President of the Offa Descendants Union (ODU), commended the Galaxy Clique for their consistent contributions, referencing their previous donation of a patrol van to the community.
He also announced plans to establish a dialysis center in Offa to address the region’s kidney care needs.
Aare Tayo Shittu, Aare Aniwura of Offaland and Director General of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), highlighted the importance of community-driven initiatives in complementing government efforts, stating: “This project underscores the fact that government cannot do it all. I commend the Galaxy Clique for stepping up to meet the needs of the community.”
Offa pharmacists, represented by Pharmacist Faremi Segun and Hajia Ganiya Arowosaye, expressed their appreciation for the Behavioral Center while raising concerns about the prevalence of drug abuse.
They called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to strengthen measures to regulate the distribution of pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the link between unregulated drugs and addiction.
The event was attended by an array of distinguished personalities, including: Dr. Abdulmalik Abdulraheem, Secretary of the Kwara State Hospital Management Board, Barrister Segun Olawoyin, Chief Akinrogun of Offaland, Isiaka Opeloyeru Lawal, NDLEA Deputy State Commander, Operations and Training, Kwara State among others.
