By Adebayo Olodan
Respite came the way of Ogundele and Atere communities in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State, last Wednesday, as Masters of Public Health (MPH) students of the University of Ilorin constructed three toilet facilities and bathrooms for residents of the area.
The toilets were located in strategic areas including the Ogundele LGEA Primary School and the Junior Secondary School.
Additionally, the MPH 2016/18 set, also repaired the borehole serving the communities just as they provided them free drugs and health talk at the Ogundele Health Centre.
Speaking on the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) with focus on HIV/AIDS, Dr Habeeb Olowu advised the communities on abstinence and the use of certified condoms during sexual intercourse.
In the same vein, Dr Asisat Abdulquadri implored residents of the communities to always take care of their body and surroundings in order to reduce the spread of diseases.
Speaking further, Abdulquadri urged the women to always make use of sanitary pad during their menstrual period, adding that they could contract diseases through the use of cloth.
In his remarks, the group supervisor and a lecturer at the Department of Public Health, University of Ilorin, Dr Femi Oladiji, urged the people to always pay premium attention to their health, adding that they should patronise the health facility in the community as drugs have been provided by the students.
Speaking, the Baale of Ogundele, Alhaji Abdulraheem Kareem said, “On behalf of the Ogundele and Atere communities, we appreciate the students for their intervention. Ever since they stormed our communities, our health has improved and we are indeed grateful to the management of Unilorin for this opportunity and hope it will be sustained.”
Kareem however called for improved facilities and medical personnel at the health centre, adding that, “Most times we rush our expectant mothers to Ilorin because medical officers at our health centre resume around 10am and depart as early as 3pm daily.”
In her response, the HOD of Health, Ilorin West Local Government, Alhaja Sikirat Ajao pledged the determination of government to beef up the staff strength and provide improved facilities at the Ogundele Health Centre.
She however implored the residents to take care of their environment and their family.
