***as Philanthropist Decries Nigeria’s Decline
In a remarkable display of philanthropy, over 2,000 patients in Kontagora, Niger State, received free medical care courtesy of the Sani Bello Foundation, as former Kano State Military Administrator, Colonel Sani Bello (Rtd), marked his 82nd birthday.
Rather than hosting a lavish celebration, Bello dedicated the milestone to addressing the healthcare needs of underserved Nigerians.
The five-day outreach, organized in collaboration with Graceland Healthcare Foundation, provided surgeries for ailments such as fibroids, hernias, goitres, and eye diseases. More than 600 surgeries were performed, alongside the free distribution of 1,255 medications and 1,000 eyeglasses.
Speaking at the event, Bello expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating infrastructure, healthcare system, and rising insecurity.
“In the 1970s, I could drive from Lagos to Kontagora in six hours, but today, even reaching Ilorin in that time is impossible,” he lamented.
“We are wealthier in resources but poorer in values. Dishonesty has become rampant, and leadership has failed the people.”
He also highlighted the alarming state of security. “During the civil war, I could travel without fear. Today, the threat of banditry and kidnapping is everywhere. It’s heartbreaking to see how much we’ve regressed.”
Bello urged affluent Nigerians to support the less privileged, emphasizing that giving back brings more joy than grand celebrations.
“Seeing smiles on the faces of those we help is the greatest reward. It’s my way of contributing to the society that shaped me,” he said.
Reflecting on the state of the nation, Bello posed a critical question: “Where did we go wrong? Why are we not making progress? We must wake up and rebuild our nation.”
Impact Beyond Celebration
Marking the 11th anniversary of the Sani Bello Foundation, the outreach underscored the power of philanthropy in addressing Nigeria’s pressing healthcare challenges. As Bello puts it, “Every smile we bring is a step toward restoring hope.”