The Bishop of the Diocese of Asaba (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev’d Kingsley C. Obuh, has officially flagged off a free medical outreach for the elderly at Emmanuel Anglican Church, Ibusa, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The event, organized by the Diocese of Asaba Agape Foundation, was part of the church’s annual Elderly Care Week, which provides free medical services and support to senior citizens aged 70 and above.
Flagging off the outreach, the Bishop — represented by Venerable Chukwudi Ekwemuka — expressed gratitude to God for the successful gathering and to everyone who contributed to the event’s success.
“We thank God for bringing everyone together safely today,” he said. “You are special people, chosen and blessed by God. Your faith and commitment are deeply appreciated.”
He encouraged the elderly to remain steadfast in faith, reminding them that God’s blessings do not depend on human strength or status, but on divine grace.
“Your children are your joy and legacy,” he added. “Everything you do today builds the roots for generations to come. May God continue to strengthen and bless you.”
Reading from Psalm 92:12–14, the Bishop’s representative assured the elderly that they would continue to flourish in God’s presence, even in old age.
Rev. Canon Ijeze Explains the Purpose of the Outreach
Rev. Canon Unorma Chuks Ijeze, Chaplain of the Elderly Care Ministry and Secretary of the Diocese of Asaba Agape Foundation, explained that the initiative aims to care for the elderly by offering free medical services and counseling.
“This outreach is part of our mission to reach out to those aged 70 and above,” he said. “We have doctors, nurses, and medical personnel attending to them. Minor ailments are treated here, while serious cases are referred to hospitals.”
He noted that the outreach is held every first Saturday of October, adding that the program is open to both members and non-members of the church.
“We identify beneficiaries through our parishes and communities, but the door is open to everyone — Christians, Muslims, and even non-religious individuals,” he said. “The medical care is completely free.”
Rev. Ijeze further explained that the Elderly Care Ministry is just one of the many humanitarian arms of the Agape Foundation, which also runs the Correctional Centre Ministry, Orphanage Ministry, and Food Security Initiative, among others.
Agape Foundation Committed to Touching Lives — PRO
The Public Relations Officer of the Foundation, Mrs. Ejiro Onwuegbuzie, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to improving lives through its humanitarian programs.
“This program is not just for church members,” she said. “It is open to all elderly people in the community, regardless of their religious background.”
Mrs. Onwuegbuzie highlighted the Foundation’s broader mission, which includes providing scholarships to underprivileged students, supporting hospitals, and partnering with correctional centers.
“We call it DAAF — Touching Lives,” she added. “We are impacting lives from different angles to build a more caring and better society.”
Elderly Beneficiaries Express Gratitude
Retired Venerable Victor C. Okoji, one of the beneficiaries, expressed deep gratitude to the Diocese for its continuous care and compassion.
“I thank God for the success of this program,” he said. “God is using the organizers to touch lives and bring healing. It’s a good thing they are doing — ministering to people and spreading love.”
Another participant, Prof. Nwanbuno Nwanbuku, described the outreach as a life-changing opportunity.
“Many elderly people can’t afford medical care,” he said. “Today, we are able to meet doctors and get proper health advice. It’s a blessing that brings hope to many of us.”
Medical Professionals Commend the Initiative
A family physician with the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba, Dr. (Miss) Mabel Onwuka, praised the church for its effort in promoting elderly healthcare.
“We are here to examine and counsel the elderly,” she said. “Those with minor issues are treated here, while serious cases are referred for further medical attention.”
She noted that many elderly Nigerians face hardship due to the absence of proper welfare systems.
“Our elderly and retirees suffer because there are no strong structures to support them,” she explained. “That’s why what the church is doing is so important. We are happy to play our part in giving back.”
The Elderly Care Medical Outreach at Emmanuel Anglican Church, Ibusa, brought together clergy, healthcare professionals, and volunteers in a shared mission to promote health, dignity, and love among the aged.
Through this initiative, the Diocese of Asaba Agape Foundation continues to live up to its name — Touching Lives — demonstrating that compassion and service remain at the heart of true Christianity
.
