By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation has continued to leave an indelible mark on the Igbuzo community, with its wide-ranging humanitarian initiatives transforming lives and strengthening grassroots development.
Over the years, the foundation has distinguished itself through impactful empowerment programmes, including scholarship schemes for students, tricycle (keke) distribution to boost youth employment, free medical outreaches, cash support initiatives, and targeted assistance for widows. These interventions have benefited both indigenes and non-indigenes, earning the foundation widespread commendation.
In response to the growing burden of asthma—a chronic respiratory disease that remains a major public health concern in Nigeria—the foundation broadened its scope to confront what health experts describe as a silent but deadly condition. With an estimated 13 to 15 million Nigerians affected, asthma continues to cause avoidable suffering and deaths due to poor diagnosis, high treatment costs, and environmental triggers.
Driven by a commitment to save lives and improve access to quality healthcare, the founder, Obi Nwaokocha Okeze, established the CIDO Asthma Foundation in Igbuzo two years ago. The facility, widely regarded as a world-class centre, operates on a zero-profit basis, providing completely free services—from hospital registration to consultation and medication.
Since its inception, the foundation has recorded remarkable milestones, currently serving over 900 patients who receive treatment at no cost. Beneficiaries and community members have described the initiative as a rare and life-saving intervention, particularly for low-income families who would otherwise struggle to access proper asthma care. The staff have also been widely praised for their professionalism, compassion, and respectful approach to patient care.
Beyond clinical services, the CIDO Asthma Foundation has remained active in global health advocacy, joining the rest of the world in marking World Asthma Day annually.
This year’s event in Igbuzo recorded a significant turnout, further raising awareness on the importance of early diagnosis and effective management of asthma.
Residents of Igbuzo and neighbouring communities have been urged to take full advantage of the facility, which is considered the first of its kind in Southern Nigeria. Health advocates believe that increased awareness and utilisation will go a long way in reducing asthma-related complications and deaths.
As the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation continues to expand its humanitarian footprint, its efforts stand as a shining example of how private initiatives can complement public healthcare delivery and bring lasting hope to underserved populations.