THE Medical Director of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Dawanau-Kano (FNHDK), Prof. Dr. Auwalu Sani Salihu, has donated 400 doses of anti-malaria medication to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Headquarters, Kano, as part of the hospital’s commitment to promoting health, supporting Corps members and strengthening community-based healthcare initiatives.
The donation was presented on behalf of the Medical Director by the Acting Head of Administration, Mr. Abdullahi Garba Karaye, who formally handed over the medications to the NYSC Coordinator, Hajiya Halima Abubakar Abdulkareem.
In a statement signed and sent to News Point Nigeria by Asmau Salisu Gwadabe, Head, Information and Protocol Unit, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Dawanau-Kano, the hospital said the intervention formed part of its broader commitment to preventive healthcare, community engagement and strategic institutional partnerships.
Speaking during the presentation, Prof. Salihu emphasised the importance of malaria prevention, early detection and appropriate treatment, particularly during the rainy season when mosquito breeding increases.
He urged Corps members to take preventive measures seriously, including sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, maintaining clean surroundings, eliminating stagnant water and seeking prompt medical attention when symptoms occur.
The Medical Director noted that the intervention was intended to contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of Corps members, whose service plays an important role in national development.
Prof. Salihu further stated that FNHDK is open to and welcomes meaningful collaborations with the NYSC, particularly in the areas of mental health awareness, enlightenment and education.
He stressed the importance of equipping young people and communities with accurate information about mental health, early identification of mental health challenges, prevention, treatment and the need to reduce stigma and discrimination against persons living with mental health conditions.
He also expressed the hospital’s willingness to explore opportunities for manpower engagement and technical support when the need arises, particularly in community-based health services, sensitisation programmes, medical and mental health outreaches, and other initiatives that can improve the health and welfare of communities.
According to him, stronger institutional partnerships can provide a platform for reaching more people with essential health information and services while creating opportunities for Corps members to participate meaningfully in community health interventions.
Responding, the NYSC Coordinator, Hajiya Halima Abubakar Abdulkareem, expressed appreciation to the Medical Director and management of FNHDK for the timely and thoughtful donation.
She noted that the intervention came at an appropriate time and would support the welfare of Corps members.
She also welcomed the proposed areas of collaboration, particularly medical outreach programmes, mental health awareness and community enlightenment, noting that such partnerships could significantly benefit Corps members and the wider communities where they serve.
The initiative further demonstrates the commitment of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Dawanau-Kano, to preventive healthcare, mental health promotion, community engagement and strategic institutional partnerships aimed at improving the well-being of the people.