Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has directed the state Ministry of Health to introduce free quarterly medical check-ups for residents across the state’s eight local government areas.
Diri gave the directive on Sunday during a thanksgiving service at St John’s Anglican Church, Olobiri, Kaiama, in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, held in honour of the Ebedaowei of Kolokuma Kingdom, King Mozi Agara.
The governor said the initiative would enable residents who cannot afford medical examinations to access free healthcare services at government secondary health facilities.
He explained that the quarterly exercise would cover conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar and cancer, noting that the rising prevalence of cancer required urgent attention from the government.
Diri urged residents to take advantage of the programme by visiting the nearest government secondary health facility. He added that the Commissioner for Health would provide further details and announce the commencement date.
The governor also directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to submit proposals for the rehabilitation of damaged sections of the road leading from Kaiama Bridge for approval.
The thanksgiving service was attended by government officials, lawmakers, traditional leaders and other dignitaries.
