By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Hundreds of Itsekiri residents in Warri and Sapele, Delta State, are receiving free medical care as Ugbajo Itsekiri USA Inc. rolled out a five-day humanitarian medical mission aimed at easing the burden of untreated illnesses among vulnerable members of the communities.
The outreach, which began on Monday, January 26, 2026, and will run until January 30, is offering cataract surgeries, deworming for school children, blood pressure checks, diabetes screening and health education to beneficiaries in both towns.
From the early hours of each day, elderly men and women, traders, artisans and school children were seen forming long queues at the outreach centres, many expressing hope of finally getting medical attention they could not previously afford.
Health workers at the diabetes and blood pressure screening unit said a large number of those tested were unaware they had underlying medical conditions.
Matron Sophia Oghomienor explained that the programme goes beyond testing, as beneficiaries are also being educated on lifestyle changes.
“Some people are shocked when they see their readings. We don’t just check their blood sugar and blood pressure, we also talk to them about healthy eating, stress management and simple habits that can prevent sickness,” she said.
She noted that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to reduce sudden deaths in rural and semi-urban communities.
For patients with eye problems, particularly cataracts, the mission is providing a rare opportunity to regain their sight.
Founder of Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation, Dr. Okorodudu, said all cataract patients registered for surgery would be operated on at First Baptist Church, Mission Road, Sapele.
“This programme is about restoring sight and dignity. When someone begins to see again, you change their life completely. They become independent and productive again,” he said.
Dr. Okorodudu described Ugbajo Itsekiri USA as a consistent and reliable partner in humanitarian service, adding that their support has helped reach people who would otherwise remain untreated.
He also commended the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, for his encouragement and fatherly role, noting that the monarch’s leadership has continued to attract goodwill to Warri Kingdom.
Representing the President of Ugbajo Itsekiri USA, the immediate past Vice President, Mr. Lucky Omiretsuli Mayor, said the group expanded the scope of this year’s outreach in response to rising cases of sudden deaths linked to undiagnosed ailments.
“Many people don’t go for routine check-ups. Some die from conditions that could have been detected early. That is why we added diabetes screening and blood pressure monitoring,” he said.
Mayor reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of Itsekiri people at home.
“This medical mission will not be the last. By God’s grace, we will return again to do more,” he added.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Josephine Omatseyinone, said the outreach had brought hope to many families.
“These people always remember us even though they live far away. Today they have brought healing and hope to our community,” she said.
In addition to medical services, beneficiaries received take-home packs containing Vitamin C, Vitamin B, paracetamol and a pack of rice.
For many residents, the outreach has become more than a health programme, but a powerful reminder that compassion, partnership and collective responsibility can change lives and strengthen communities.