By: Ike Phiip Abiagom
His Royal Majesty, Obi Prof. Chelunor Nwoboshi,the Obuzor of Igbuzo has commissioned the Light Diabetes Screening and Treatment Center built by Princess(Mrs)Tonia Akindele, United Kingdom based Nurse from Umuekea for Igbuzo community and its environs.
Commissioning the facility which is located inside Idumu Akpanni Road,Umuidi Quarters in Ibusa, the Obuzor of Igbuzo said the Diabetes Centre represents community service and support at its best and commended the founder for the investments to tackle diabetes which is a major public health threat in Nigeria and across the world.
“This unique humanitarian gesture will be remembered for years to come as a lifesaving contribution by Princess(Mrs)Tonia Akindele, for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes,” the Nwoboshi said.
“I commend the Princess(Mrs)Tonia Akindele, for this huge gesture. We look forward to more of such collaborations with other sons and daughters of Igbuzo to improve the living standards of the people.”
HRM Nwoboshi said diabetes is a chronic condition that currently afflicts 463 million adults worldwide, a number that is estimated to hit 700m by the close of 2045.
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the estimated prevalence of diabetes in Nigeria is 4.3% which is largely attributed to lifestyle changes caused by urbanization, unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, smoking and harmful use of alcohol,” he added.
At the event were representatives of the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Hon Innocent and Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs.The Omu of Ibusa, Obi Josephine Isioma Nwannabuogwu Dr (Mrs) Princess Pat Ajudua, Special Assistance to the Governor on Youth Moblisation for Ward 8,in Oshimili North LGA, Chief Austin Ndinwa( Okemili Igbuzo),Chief Ifeanyi Onwordi- Alamuzo Ibusa,Hon. Austin Okonji aka O-Level,Mr Emma Amatokwu aka-Kwasa, amongst other prominent personalities.
The founder of The Light Diabetes Organisation, Mrs Tonia Nkem Akindele nee Elumelu, in her remarks, lauded the leadership quality of His Royal Majesty,Obi Prof. Chelunor Nwoboshi,Obuzor of Igbuzo and his belief in the power of partnership to reposition the Igbuzo town in the state and also commended Igbuzo community for their unflinching support throughout the execution of the project.
Princess Akindele said that The Light Diabetes Organisation has made a statement with the construction of this Ultra-Modern Diabetes Screening and Treatment Centre at Ibusa, Delta State.The Multi-million-naira Diabetes treatment facility will serve people in the Delta Northern Senatorial district of state ,neighbouring Anambra, Ebonyi, as well as Edo State as it is fully equipped with facilities and also with an ambulance.
The founder of The Light Diabetes Organisation, Mrs Tonia Nkem Akindele nee Elumelu said the need to improve the quality of live of the people was the brain behind establishment and the construction of the facility.
She told Newsbreeze that the project was significant as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Light Diabetes Organisation in Nigeria. Mrs Akindele disclosed that studies show that at least 60 persons die daily from diabetes related illnesses in Nigeria.
“This informed the need for this facility which will after for the health needs of this in surrounding communities while providing a point of care for screening and treatment to help avert the looming numbers recorded nationwide and render service towards improving our communities and humanity.
“Underprivileged families in these communities can confidently walk into a modern facility without the fear of huge financial cost to seek screening and help in diabetes related ailments.
“This will in effect encourage a drop in the prevalent death records due to diabetes related issues.
“Our investment here will help ensure that the people of Oshimili ,Aniocha and Delta at large will have the health infrastructure that meets international standards to efficiently prosecute diabetes related concerns and other medical issues connected to it” she said
Speaking further ,she hinted that their investment in strengthening Nigeria’s health system was considerably beyond just constructing buildings as they build as well as equip. The Light Diabetes Organisation is working closely with federal, state and local governments to improve the quality of life and general wellbeing of its citizens across its six thematic areas of focus.
She thanked her beloved husband Prince Akindele who is the main pillar and her strength for this Ultra-Modern Diabetes Screening and Treatment Centre at Ibusa.