Mohamed Garba
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced a major milestone in its decade-long effort to bridge Nigeria’s healthcare gap, revealing that its Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) has provided critical medical services to over four million Nigerians since its launch in 2014.
The disclosure came during the launch of the 2025 First Quarter HIRD program in the Dutse-Alhaji and Dutsepe communities of Abuja, where officials emphasized the initiative’s role in advancing socio-economic development through improved public health.
NYSC Director-General, Brigadier-General Olakunle Nafiu, highlighted the program’s success on Monday, unveiling its dual focus on immediate healthcare delivery and long-term systemic change. Represented by Mr. Ahmed Ikaka, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Nafiu noted that HIRD leverages the skills of corps members—including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and lab scientists—to diagnose ailments, conduct sensitization campaigns on disease prevention, and refer complex cases to specialized facilities.
“This initiative is not just about treatment; it’s about empowering communities with knowledge and data,” Nafiu stated. “By mapping health trends in rural areas, we equip governments and institutions with the insights needed for effective planning and resource allocation.”
The two-day outreach in Dutse-Alhaji and Dutsepe saw hundreds of residents access free medical check-ups, treatments for common ailments, and workshops on hygiene and preventive care. Mr. Ahidjo Yahaya, Director of Community Development Service and Special Projects, explained that corps members’ deployment has been pivotal in reaching underserved populations. “Our medical teams address everything from malaria to hypertension, while educating communities on sustaining healthier lifestyles,” he said.
Local leaders lauded the initiative’s ripple effects. Alhaji Abubakar Bako, District Head of Dutse-Alhaji, described the program as a beacon of inspiration for youth. “Seeing corps members in their uniforms motivates our children to pursue education and careers in medicine. This is about more than healthcare—it’s about hope,” he emphasized.
Nafiu credited the initiative’s achievements to partnerships with governments, NGOs, and health institutions, which have bolstered outreach capabilities. Residents like Aisha Musa, a mother of three, praised the program’s accessibility: “Before, we traveled hours for care. Now, help comes to us. They even taught me how to protect my family from infections.”
As Nigeria grapples with healthcare challenges, the NYSC’s model offers a blueprint for scalable, community-driven solutions. With plans to expand HIRD’s reach, the Corps aims to deepen its impact, ensuring rural Nigerians no longer remain invisible in national health agendas.
