Every April 7th, the world unites to mark World Health Day, a time to reflect on health challenges, promote healthy living, and strengthen access to healthcare. At Queen Luciano Foundation, health is a priority in our mission to uplift and empower underserved communities.
In celebration of World Health Day 2025, we carried out impactful medical outreach projects in two different locations: Federal University Teaching Hospital, (UNIMEDTH/SH), Akure and Oliha Market, Benin City. These outreach events provided free health examination and consultations while spreading awareness about preventive healthcare practices.
This year’s theme was not only about health awareness; it was also about taking action and ensuring that everyone is included in the pursuit of good health.
Bringing healthcare to the doorsteps of the masses in Akure
Our outreach in Akure took place at the Federal University Teaching Hospital and began as early as 8:00 am. The hospital staff were already on the ground, ready to work alongside our team of volunteers to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Early Arrival and Registration
Upon arrival, the team immediately began registering participants. A large number of people were already waiting before the nurses arrived, showcasing the high demand for accessible healthcare services. Our volunteers were actively involved in coordinating the crowd, assisting with registration, and tagging test results to ensure that every participant’s data was recorded properly.
The entire venue was buzzing with activity and purpose. As more participants arrived, our team worked closely with the hospital staff to conduct health screenings, including breathing examination, blood sugar level checks, blood pressure monitoring, and general wellness consultations.
Partnership with healthcare professionals
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Akure outreach was the collaboration between the QLF staff and the hospital’s medical team. The hospital staff played a vital role in executing some of the tests and offering professional advice to the participants.
This partnership exemplified what community health outreach should look like, which is a united front between civil society and medical institutions to meet people where they are.
Recognition from the Hospital Leadership
The outreach caught the attention of key figures at the hospital, including the Chief Medical Director, who expressed deep gratitude and admiration for the work Queen Luciano Foundation is doing. He praised the Foundation for reaching people through the hospital, saying:
You are doing what others cannot do—shining a light into lives that many institutions often forget. Be the light bearers, because through this foundation, a lot can change in the world.
His words were both encouraging and affirming, reminding us of the transformative power of collective goodwill and consistent community service.
Capturing the moment
Throughout the program, photos and videos were taken to document the event and share with our broader audience. These visuals captured not only the process but also the hope and gratitude on the faces of participants—a true reflection of impact.
Market women take center stage in Benin City
In Benin City, our World Health Day outreach was hosted at Oliha Market, a bustling hub of trade and commerce. The decision to host the project here was intentional. We wanted to reach working-class women and traders who often ignore their health due to their busy schedules.
Setting up and mobilizing the crowd
Our team arrived at the market by 10:00 am and wasted no time in mobilising the women. The reception was overwhelmingly positive. Traders left their stalls to participate in the free medical check-up, and a numbering system was introduced to ensure orderly coordination.
Participants were registered and assigned numbers, after which the nurse on duty took her seat and began attending to each participant in turn. Both men and women took part in the exercise, showing the community’s eagerness to receive medical attention.
Simple but impactful setup
Despite the busy nature of the market, the team set up a functional and welcoming area for the outreach. With each number called, participants received health checks and, where necessary, were given advice or referrals for further medical evaluation.
This exercise reminded us that community healthcare doesn’t always need a large auditorium or an expensive clinic. Sometimes, all you need is a table, a chair, a trained nurse, and the willingness to serve.
Key impact and outcomes
Both outreach events, though different in setting, delivered life-changing services to people who may otherwise not prioritise or afford medical care.
Shared outcomes across both locations:
- Over 200 individuals were reached in total through the medical outreach
- Free health screenings, including breast examination, blood pressure and blood sugar tests
- Health awareness education provided by nurses and hospital staff
- Meaningful collaboration with local institutions and healthcare professionals
- Expressions of gratitude from participants and community leaders
One of the most beautiful parts of both events was seeing how people, many of whom hadn’t visited a hospital in years, felt valued, seen, and cared for. The joy on their faces as they received simple medical attention was a powerful reminder that small acts of care can lead to big transformations.
Wrapping up
World Health Day 2025 reminded us that health is a human right, not a privilege. At Queen Luciano Foundation, we are committed to continuing this journey of health education, outreach, and empowerment.
Whether it’s in a hospital corridor or a local market, our mission remains the same: to bridge the gap between healthcare access and the communities that need it most.
We are incredibly grateful to the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Akure, and the traders and leaders of Oliha Market, Benin City, for allowing us to serve and share this moment with them.
Together, we are building a healthier and more compassionate society.
