By Chiagoziem Abosi
Edited by Bababunmi Agbebi
For many residents of the Anifowoshe community in Ikeja, World Hepatitis Day became more than just another date on the calendar. It became an opportunity to take a simple but potentially life-saving step, knowing their hepatitis status.
To mark the global awareness day, IkejaBird Media, in collaboration with HealthDrive Nigeria, organised a free hepatitis screening and sensitisation outreach in the Anifowoshe community, bringing healthcare services directly to residents and encouraging conversations around early detection, prevention and treatment.
The outreach recorded 90 free hepatitis screenings, with residents of different ages voluntarily coming forward to know their status. Beyond the tests, healthcare professionals also provided health education on hepatitis, explaining how the virus is transmitted, ways to reduce the risk of infection and the importance of early diagnosis.
The exercise reflected this year’s World Hepatitis Day message that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe liver disease and improve treatment outcomes.
While many of those screened tested negative, some residents received positive results. Rather than leaving them with uncertainty, the outreach included free medical consultations, where healthcare professionals counselled affected individuals, answered their questions and guided them on the next steps for proper medical care and treatment.
For many participants, the consultation was just as valuable as the screening itself, helping to reduce fear, correct misconceptions and emphasise that a positive diagnosis is not the end of the road when appropriate care is sought early.
The outreach was coordinated by Mayowa Shekoni, Coordinator of HealthDrive Nigeria, whose team worked alongside volunteers to ensure the screening and education sessions were carried out smoothly.
The initiative also received the support of Honourable Salami Idris Olawale, Councillor representing Ward D, Anifowoshe, and Chief Whip of the Ikeja Legislative House, whose involvement helped mobilise members of the community and reinforce the importance of preventive healthcare at the grassroots.
Throughout the outreach, one thing stood out: people were willing to know their status.
Residents expressed appreciation that the service was brought closer to their community at no cost. The enthusiasm demonstrated that when healthcare becomes accessible and awareness is increased, more people are willing to take charge of their health.
Hepatitis remains a major public health concern worldwide because many people living with the infection show no symptoms until serious liver damage has already occurred. Health experts continue to encourage regular screening, vaccination where available and prompt medical attention for anyone who tests positive.
For IkejaBird Media, the outreach reflects a commitment that extends beyond reporting community issues. It represents a belief that journalism can also connect people with opportunities that improve lives, raise awareness and inspire healthier communities.
As the outreach concluded, one message remained clear: knowing your status could save your life.
Through partnerships like this, IkejaBird Media and HealthDrive Nigeria hope to continue bringing health education and essential screening services closer to the communities that need them most.
If you missed this outreach, don’t wait until you feel sick before getting tested. Know your status, encourage someone else to do the same, and follow IkejaBird Media for more community stories and initiatives that make a real difference.
