By Seyi Odewale
In a bid to support healthcare delivery and improve mobility for patients, the Rotary Club of Falomo, District 9112, has donated 20 brand-new wheelchairs valued at N3m to the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Igbobi, Lagos State.
The donation was formally presented on Thursday by the club’s president, Rotarian Sandra Ovie, who described the initiative as part of the club’s ongoing commitment to community service.
“Access to mobility aids like wheelchairs can make a world of difference in a patient’s recovery process,” Ovie said. “After a needs assessment, it was clear that the hospital needed more support in this area. This donation reflects Rotary’s commitment to service above self.”
She added that the project was funded through a grant from District 9112 and inspired by an experience at the hospital.
“One of our former presidents had his wife admitted here after an accident, and we noticed the challenges staff faced due to a shortage of wheelchairs. That memory stayed with us,” Ovie recalled.
Receiving the items on behalf of the hospital, Dr Francis Nwachukwu, Head of Clinical Services, who represented the acting Medical Director, Dr Wakeel Lawal, expressed appreciation for the club’s support.
“Health care, particularly in orthopaedics, is costly. We deal with implants, metals, and devices that are imported and costly,” Nwachukwu said. “Many of our patients are indigent and can’t afford the care they need. Donations like these directly improve their quality of life and reduce the burden on the hospital.”
He emphasised the importance of partnerships in sustaining public healthcare, noting, “We have several organisations we collaborate with to offset patient bills. The reality is, we need more partners like Rotary.”
Former Club President, Rotarian Julie Don Adinuba, urged the hospital to ensure the donated wheelchairs are maintained and used for the benefit of those who genuinely need them.
“These wheelchairs must serve their purpose – to help the vulnerable, the sick, and those struggling to move around. That is our mission,” Adinuba stated.
Also speaking, the incoming president of the Rotary Club of Falomo, Rotarian Ibrahim Sule, pledged the club’s continued support to the health sector and other areas of humanitarian need.
“This is just one of many impactful projects in our pipeline. We are committed to doing more in education, healthcare, youth development, and environmental sustainability,” Sule said.
Patients and staff members who witnessed the event expressed gratitude, noting that the donation would greatly ease patient mobility within the facility.
With this gesture, the Rotary Club of Falomo reaffirms its role as a vital community partner, stepping in where government resources are stretched.
