Hundreds of residents in Surulere, Lagos State, received vital free healthcare services over the weekend during a significant medical outreach organized by the office of the Senate President.
National Impact of Senate President's Philanthropy
The event, held on Saturday, 6 January 2026, marked the third edition of the Akpabio Cares Initiative in two years. This philanthropic program, driven by the office of Senator Godswill Akpabio, provided free medical consultations, prescribed drugs, and eyeglasses to vulnerable community members who struggle to afford basic care.
Speaking at the venue, the convener, Mr. Ahmed Tijani Mustapha, who is the Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President, explained the motive behind the outreach. "We are doing this as a way of giving back to society, and we believe that the best gift is that of good health," Mustapha told journalists.
Why Lagos, Not Akwa Ibom?
Addressing questions on why the program was held in Lagos instead of Senator Akpabio's home state of Akwa Ibom, Mustapha emphasized a national mandate. "Senator Godswill Akpabio is the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his impact must be felt across the country," he stated firmly.
The Lagos edition was designed to reach approximately 700 beneficiaries. This initiative follows previous successful outreaches held in Osogbo, Osun State, and Yankaba in Kano State.
Community Relief and Gratitude
Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude for the timely intervention. One resident thanked Senator Akpabio for remembering their community, noting the initiative brought much-needed relief. Another beneficiary praised Mustapha's appointment, suggesting his connection to the area helped attract what they called "dividends of democracy."
The program specifically targeted those unable to afford essential healthcare services, ensuring access for the most vulnerable.
Next Phase Heads to North Central Zone
At the conclusion of the Lagos exercise, Mustapha revealed the humanitarian program's next destination. The Akpabio Cares Initiative will move to the North Central geopolitical zone as it continues its mission to provide free medical care across Nigeria's six zones.
This ongoing series of outreaches demonstrates a structured effort to extend the Senate President's philanthropic impact beyond political boundaries, directly addressing critical healthcare access gaps in communities nationwide.
