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By Bianca Idoma-Emefu
The District Governor of Rotary International District 9111, Rotarian Bukola Bakare, has challenged Rotarians to go into their communities, identify indigent patients in need of medical intervention, and connect them to free surgeries and healthcare services.
Bakare made the call during her official visit to the Rotary Club of Lagos West, urging members to ensure that available medical interventions reach those who cannot afford treatment.
She highlighted Rotary’s Mission for Vision program, which provides free prescription eyeglasses and cataract surgeries, stressing that Rotarians should actively reach out to vulnerable individuals suffering from preventable and treatable conditions.
“People are dying daily due to treatable diseases. The surgeries are free. Rotarians must go into society, find those who need help, and ensure they benefit,” she said.
She explained that the objective extends beyond providing medical care to helping beneficiaries regain their livelihoods and contribute to their families and communities. The initiative forms part of her broader humanitarian agenda for the 2026–2027 Rotary year, valued at approximately ₦1.4 billion. A major component includes an ₦800 million, 60-bed Rotary Wellness Centre for mental health at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba.
President of the Rotary Club of Lagos West, Rotarian Joy Ani, added that the club selected local beneficiaries for direct economic support following a thorough needs-assessment exercise.
