By Fresh Facts Magazine Reporter
In a laudable demonstration of its commitment to community service, Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, recently extended the hand of health and hope to residents of Umiaghwa and Oruarivie Kingdoms in a robust, one-day free medical outreach. The initiative, which aligns with DELSU’s broader vision of driving social impact beyond academia, marked a defining moment in the university’s ever-expanding portfolio of community engagement.
The medical outreach, held simultaneously at the town halls of Umiaghwa and Oruarivie, saw over 500 residents with a variety of health challenges benefit from comprehensive healthcare services at absolutely no cost. The services included medical screenings, consultations, diagnosis, treatment, health education, and referrals. Beneficiaries were also provided with free prescription eyeglasses and assorted medications.
Although the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samuel O. Asagba, was unavoidably absent, he was ably represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Hilary Ijeoma Owamah, who led a team of healthcare professionals from the National Association of Doctors in the University Health Services (NADUHS-DELSU) and the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN-DELSUTH).
This outreach wasn’t just a token gesture—it was a carefully coordinated effort that mobilized a range of medical specialists and resources from the university’s health system. Their goal: to bridge healthcare access gaps and bring real relief to underserved populations within the host communities.
Professor Owamah, speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, emphasized that the outreach represents DELSU’s enduring mission to not only be a center of learning and research but also a vital agent of positive transformation in the society. “We believe universities should be more than ivory towers,” he said. “We are here to serve, to support, and to stand with our people.”
The warm reception from residents of both kingdoms was a testament to the impact of the gesture. Smiles, gratitude, and prayers filled the atmosphere as community members received not just treatment, but reassurance that they had not been forgotten.
Many residents described the outreach as a lifeline. Mrs. Grace Efeoghene, a local trader, expressed her appreciation: “I haven’t been able to go for medical checkups for years due to cost. Today, I got my eyes tested, received free drugs, and even a new pair of glasses. I am truly grateful to DELSU.”
Elders of both kingdoms joined in the chorus of appreciation, commending the university leadership and urging that such interventions become regular. “This is the true spirit of community partnership,” said Chief Edward Erhuvwu, a respected voice in Oruarivie Kingdom. “The university is not just in our land; it is now in our hearts.”
Over the years, DELSU has maintained a deep-rooted relationship with the Abraka community, contributing to social cohesion, enhancing educational opportunities, promoting cultural heritage, and now—most impactfully—supporting public health. This latest outreach further solidifies the university’s reputation as a catalyst for sustainable development in Delta State.
As DELSU continues to blaze trails in academic excellence, research, and innovation, its leadership is equally demonstrating that true greatness lies not only in knowledge shared but in lives touched. The free medical outreach is a bold reminder that the university remains committed to leaving no one behind.
Fresh Facts Magazine will be watching as this story unfolds—because when universities serve, societies thrive.
