The Kwara State Government has applauded the Royal Heritage Health Foundation (RHHF) for its outstanding service to humanity and contributions to healthcare delivery in the state and beyond.

The state Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi, gave the commendation on Thursday while delivering an address at the 20th anniversary of the Foundation in Ilorin.

The theme of the programme is entitled “Empowering Youth, Igniting Enterprise: Seeds Planted, Futures Harvested.”

The deputy governor was represented by the State Commissioner for Finance, Hauwa Nuru.

He said the government recognised and appreciated the humanitarian interventions of civil societies in the state, particularly in reaching vulnerable and underserved populations with healthcare services.

Mr Alabi observed that the RHHF had consistently demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of people through its various programmes.

He said these included medical outreaches, health advocacy, and partnership with other development organisations in delivering life-saving interventions.

According to him, the activities of the foundation align with the state’s health agenda of ensuring accessible, affordable and quality healthcare for all, especially women and children.

The deputy governor assured that the government would continue to create an enabling environment for NGOs, civil societies and development partners like the RHHF to thrive and support the state’s drive for inclusive development.

In her address, Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Nigeria, Muriel Mafico, said the RHHF had, in the past two decades, demonstrated commitment and integrity grounded in solid values.

Ms Mafico noted that UNFPA supported activities of the foundation, especially their bold vision in ending violence and promoting right to healthcare, education, dignity and protection.

“That vision cannot be achieved by a single organisation. Partnership is what glues everything together.

“What started as a small idea has become a success. Reducing maternal mortality and addressing violence, everyone should live in dignity. These are noble aspirations that require partnership,” she said.

The UNFPA boss, however, urged traditional leaders in the state to support organisations and the government in bringing development activities to local communities.

“We cannot have brilliant ideas only; it takes the communities to carve access to that opportunity,” she said.

Ms Mafico encouraged the RHHF to brace up to do more for the country and, by extension, other parts of the world.

Earlier in her address, Board Chairperson of RHHF, Raliat Olatunji, explained that the programme was a celebration of purpose, impact, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to humanity.

According to her, the foundation has partnered with several reputable national and international development partners on humanitarian activities.

Ms Olatunji said part of the activities for the anniversary included a health walk, medical outreaches and the opening of an adolescent- and youth-friendly space at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH).

She noted that the initiative provided a dedicated space where young people could access health, counselling services and support, describing it as a safe and welcoming environment.

In his goodwill message, the Emir of Shonga, Haliru Yahaya, commended the foundation for impacting the country through their various interventions for the past 20 years.

The traditional ruler pledged that traditional leaders would continue to give necessary support to the foundation in their various humanitarian activities across the state. 

(NAN)