Federal civil servants get free medical check-up

As part of events to commemorate the 2025 Civil Service Week, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) organized a complimentary medical screening for federal civil servants on Friday.

Speaking during the exercise, the Head of the Civil Service, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, emphasized the importance of regular health checks for civil servants, citing the demanding nature of their duties. Represented by Mrs. Patience Oyekunle, Permanent Secretary of the Service Welfare Office, she reiterated a common adage:

“Anyone with good health will spend less money on hospital visits and will be more productive,” she said.

Walson-Jack expressed satisfaction with the turnout and efficiency of the health outreach, noting that test results were delivered promptly and medications administered where necessary.

She also acknowledged persistent issues faced by civil servants in accessing medications and receiving adequate treatment through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

“These are policy issues. We need to go back to the drawing board and come up with a revised policy framework.What we currently have is outdated, especially in light of rising drug prices,” she said.

Mr. Azeez Champion, one of the participants, praised the effective organization of the medical outreach despite the high turnout.

“I urge those still in their offices to take advantage of this opportunity. Health is wealth. We have lost many staff members due to irregular check-ups,” he said.

Another civil servant, Eneh Benedict, who had undergone tests earlier in the week, came to retrieve her results.

“I discovered my blood pressure was high and did not know until now. I have been given medication and it has already started improving,” she said.

She expressed appreciation for the initiative and encouraged its continuation, thanking the Head of Service for the effort.

Dr. Longbap Dinfa, Assistant Director at the Wellness Centre under the OHCSF, explained that the initiative extended beyond staff of the head office to all federal civil servants. Tests offered included screenings for hepatitis B and C, typhoid, malaria, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

“We discovered several cases of undiagnosed hepatitis, peptic ulcer, and malaria-typhoid during the check-up.On Sunday, a woman who collapsed was promptly treated and is now stable,” he said.

He added that cases requiring specialist attention were referred to the National Hospital, urging civil servants to prioritize routine medical assessments.