By John Dike, Osogbo
Residents of Akiriboto, a rural community in Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State, have benefitted from a free medical outreach organized by the Funmilayo Bamidele Oke Memorial Foundation (FBOMF).
Numbering over 300, the people were served the medical outreach held at the Akiriboto market square.
The outreach marked FBOMF’s first major public intervention since its official inauguration a month ago.
The event attracted a large number of resident men, women, and children many of whom have had limited or no access to basic healthcare services in recent years.
Participants were screened for various ailments including malaria, hepatitis, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Free medications were dispensed, and attendees received professional medical advice on managing and preventing common health issues.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson and Promoter of FBOMF, Hon. Taiwo Oluga, a former member of the House of Representatives, said the initiative was inspired by the legacy of her departed mother, Madam Funmilayo Bamidele Oke, a native of the community known for her selfless service and compassion.
“This gesture is purely humanitarian. It is not about politics but about humanity. What binds us together is our shared humanity, and we must do all we can to preserve it for a more peaceful world,” Hon. Oluga stated.
She emphasized that FBOMF’s programs—spanning healthcare, education, and economic empowerment—would remain entirely free and targeted at underserved communities, especially in rural areas. She also warned residents to be cautious of impostors attempting to exploit the foundation’s name.
“FBOMF will never charge for its services. We are here to serve, not to profit,” she added.
Hon. Oluga further called for the strengthening of local government institutions to enhance their capacity to respond to the health and social welfare needs of grassroots communities.
Also present at the event, Prof Adewumi Adebisi, a member of the FBOMF Board of Trustees, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable, particularly elderly women over 60 and young girls under 25.
“Supporting women at both ends of life—early and late—builds stronger families and stronger communities. FBOMF is committed to investing in healthcare, education, and livelihoods for those who need it most,” Prof. Adebisi said.
The Balogun of Akiriboto and acting community head, Chief Adesoye Julius, described the outreach as a “blessing” and commended Hon. Oluga for her continued support to the community.
Also speaking, the Iyalode of Akiriboto, Chief Sabina Okunade, praised the initiative, noting that many residents often forgo medical care due to financial constraints.
Leading the medical team, Dr. Idowu Olowoyo highlighted the dangers of neglecting routine checkups and poor lifestyle choices. He used the opportunity to educate residents on basic hygiene, balanced nutrition, and the benefits of early detection.
“Most of the conditions we treated today—like high blood pressure and diabetes—are manageable if detected early. But because many people don’t go for checkups, small issues become life-threatening,” Dr. Olowoyo warned.
“This outreach is not just about giving drugs; it’s about opening people’s eyes to the importance of preventive healthcare.”
As part of the foundation’s empowerment effort, Ankara fabrics were distributed to middle-aged and elderly beneficiaries. Attendees were also treated to musical performances and refreshments, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
In separate interviews, beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the outreach as both timely and life-saving. Many shared stories of abandoning medical care due to lack of funds.
FBOMF has pledged to extend similar interventions to other rural communities across Osun State in the coming months.
