By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
The Okun Development Association (ODA), Dutse Branch, Jigawa State, has brought smiles to young patients at the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital, donating gift items as part of its annual end-of-year humanitarian outreach.
Members of the association, led by its Vice Chairman, Mr. Ojo Jacob Olanrewaju, visited the hospital on Friday, distributing gifts to children admitted in both the medical and surgical wards, in a gesture aimed at lifting their spirits during the festive season.
Speaking after the presentation, Olanrewaju said the initiative reflects ODA’s long-standing culture of compassion and community service, particularly towards vulnerable groups.
“This is something we have always done. Every end of the year, we reach out to people who are passing through difficult times to let them know they are not alone,” he said.
He explained that the decision to focus on paediatric patients this year was informed by the need to give hope and encouragement to children facing health challenges.
“Our aim is to share joy, brighten their days and pray for their speedy recovery. Seeing the happiness on their faces is very fulfilling,” Olanrewaju added.
He noted that the Okun Development Association is made up of members of the Yoruba community residing in Dutse and stressed that the outreach was part of their commitment to contributing positively to the host community in which they live peacefully.
Olanrewaju also commended the Jigawa State Government, under Governor Malam Umar Namadi, for ongoing improvements in the health sector and other critical areas of development, while calling for more inclusive policies that cater to the needs of marginalised groups.
In his response, a nursing officer at the hospital, Dr. Nasir Auwalu, expressed appreciation to the association for the thoughtful gesture, noting that such acts of kindness go a long way in boosting the morale of young patients and their families.
Also speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Malama Binta Usman thanked the association for the support and prayed for its continued success, calling for more humanitarian initiatives of this nature across Jigawa State.
