By Stanley Onyekwere
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Nancy Nathan, has called on civil servants to take charge of their personal wellbeing, describing regular medical check-ups as a non-negotiable priority for a productive workforce.
Speaking at the conclusion of a two-day free medical outreach held for FCTA staff on Thursday.
Mrs. Nathan emphasized that the initiative was specifically designed to bridge the gap between busy work schedules and essential healthcare access.
She raised a sobering alarm regarding the rising cases of sudden deaths among the workforce, often mistakenly attributed to mysterious causes.
She clarified that these tragedies are frequently the result of unmanaged chronic conditions.
“The initiative is a call to action for all of us. Health is wealth.
“You often hear, ‘There was nothing wrong with him… He just went to work, came back, slept, and didn’t wake up.’ In most cases, it is hypertension or diabetes,” she said.
By labeling these conditions as “silent killers,” the Head of Service urged staff to utilize the free screenings for diabetes and hypertension provided by the administration to avoid preventable health crises.
Mrs. Nathan concluded by reiterating that under the current administration, the dignity and health of civil servants remain a top priority, ensuring that those who serve the city are well enough to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
The Head of Service’s message was bolstered by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment, who reminded staff that their health is already a funded right.
Workers were encouraged to activate their NHIS PINs and cards, as monthly deductions already cover these services.
The scheme includes quality care ranging from routine medication to necessary surgical procedures.
While the outreach concluded on May 7, the Renewed Staff Clinic remains open. Staff only need their ID and insurance card to continue receiving treatment and medication.
The two-day exercise, which aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda under the direction of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, saw significant turnout: 400+ total attendees, 270 eyeglasses distributed,
hundreds screened and treated for hypertension and diabetes.
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