Lions Clubs International has launched a World Diabetes Day awareness campaign in Gwarinpa Village, Federal Capital Territory, targeting 3,000 residents with free diabetes screening, medication, and food support. The outreach, organised by Lions Clubs International Abuja Cluster, aims to promote early detection and address the growing burden of diabetes. The campaign, themed "Action: Early Detection Saves Lives," took place at Hakimi's Palace in Gwarinpa Village.
The traditional ruler of Gwarinpa, HRH. Prince Umar Bayero, commended Lions Clubs International for its humanitarian interventions, which have helped promote healthier and safer communities. He expressed concern over the growing burden of diabetes, describing it as a serious health challenge contributing to illness and other complications. Bayero thanked the organisation for bringing awareness and free medical services to the community.
Lion Hadiza Abutu-Ibrahim, Abuja Cluster Coordinator for World Diabetes Day 2026, said the initiative extends diabetes awareness and healthcare services beyond the metropolis to rural communities. The outreach includes free blood sugar testing, provision of diabetes medication, and distribution of food support to beneficiaries. Abutu-Ibrahim explained that the organisation targets 3,000 people, adding that community-based interventions are crucial in supporting households and benefiting other family members.
Lion Ahmed Babagbemi Tajudeen, Region 3 Chairperson, described diabetes as a condition that can go undetected for a long time due to lack of obvious symptoms in its early stages. He emphasised the importance of early screening, allowing people to live with the condition without knowing their status until complications develop. Tajudeen said the World Diabetes Day outreach is taking place simultaneously in other parts of the country, including Calabar, Port Harcourt, Uyo, and Enugu.
The Lions Clubs International outreach provides medication to beneficiaries diagnosed with diabetes and refers those requiring further medical attention for additional care. The organisation does not operate a permanent medical centre but takes its services directly to underserved communities. Region 2 Chairperson, Lion Chief Peter Patrick, was part of the leadership team at the outreach.
A beneficiary, Paulina Moses, expressed appreciation for the free screening, medication, and awareness provided, saying the exercise had helped her become more informed about diabetes. The outreach is part of Lions Clubs International's broader humanitarian activities, covering areas including diabetes, childhood cancer, vision, and other community needs.
The Lions Clubs International Abuja Cluster's World Diabetes Day awareness campaign demonstrates the organisation's commitment to promoting healthcare and supporting underserved communities. By extending its services to Gwarinpa Village, Lions Clubs International aims to make a positive impact on the lives of residents and promote a healthier community.
Key points
- Lions Clubs International targets 3,000 residents in Gwarinpa Village with free diabetes screening and medication.
- The outreach aims to promote early detection and address the growing burden of diabetes in the community.
- The organisation provides medication and food support to beneficiaries diagnosed with diabetes.
