By Diana Omueza
Hope Everyday Foundation (HEF), a Medical Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has advised traffic wardens and police personnel in Kuje Local Government Area to prioritise their health and well-being for effective service delivery.
Executive Director of the foundation, Dr Nkechi Akinwale, gave the advice during a health and welfare outreach, organised in partnership with MarketSquare in Kuje, for personnel of wardens and policemen on Wednesday in Abuja.
Akinwale said that the roles of wardens and policemen in the council was crucial, especially in the maintenance of traffic law and order, hence the need for them to remain fit and healthy.
“Our gratitude goes to the officers for their continuous service to the Kuje community.
“While we commend their efforts at ensuring free decongestions and free flow of traffic, we urge them to make their health a priority.
“We understand that the nature of your job is hectic and that is why regular checks of vital signs, such as blood pressure and blood sugar levels, should be done frequently.
“Other medical check-ups too are important but staying hydrated and maintaining good hygiene remains the first step to staying healthy,” she said.
Akinwale said that regular medical check-ups would help in identifying medical concerns, aid proper management of health of those with existing ailment and prevent further health depreciation.
She called for free medical services and welfare support for traffic wardens and policemen to motivate them.
Divisional Traffic Officer (DTO), Traffic Control Unit Kuje, ASP Alhassan Etu, appreciated the NGO for the gesture toward the traffic wardens and policemen.
“On behalf of the traffic wardens, we thank the organisers of this outreach and the MarketSquare for recognising the contributions of the officers.
“We also approach the free health services and welfare packages that were provided,” he said.
MarketSquare Kuje Branch Manager, Mr Felix Kayode, appreciated the NGO for initiating the outreach to recognise and appreciate the efforts of traffic wardens and policemen in Kuje.
Kayode said that the outreach aligned with the mandates and commitment of its organisation toward enhancing the well-being of communities.
“Appreciating traffic wardens and policemen is a step in the right direction, which is in line with our mandates of enhancing and empowering Kuje community,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that free medical services and welfare packages containing food items was provided for the more than 35 police officers and traffic wardens from six traffic units.
The free services, including health consultations, blood pressure and temperature monitoring, blood sugar, malaria and typhoid fever tests as well as free medications, were prescribed and dispensed. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)