2000 Register for Free Hearing Kits on World Hearing Day in Ogun
Over 2000 individuals have registered for the 2024 Free World Hearing Day exercise in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, marking a significant initiative to address hearing impairments. The Special Assistant on Media to former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo made this announcement, revealing that the exercise, organized by the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, coincided with Chief Obasanjo’s 87th birthday anniversary and World Hearing Day.
Dr. Olalekan Makinde, CEO of the Foundation, emphasized the need for government intervention to prioritize the well-being of hearing-impaired citizens in Nigeria. He highlighted the challenges of accessibility and affordability of hearing aids, stressing the urgency for governmental assistance as the number of sufferers continues to rise annually.
Makinde disclosed plans to distribute no fewer than 2000 hearing aids free of charge in collaboration with foundation partners, acknowledging Chief Obasanjo’s support in facilitating the exercise. The initiative aims to ensure access to hearing aids for those in need, addressing the societal misperceptions and stigma associated with hearing loss.
Aderinola Olopade, founder of the Ear Care Foundation for Africa/Asia, urged policymakers to prioritize access to newborn hearing screening programs, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.
The World Hearing Day 2024 campaign focuses on raising awareness and sharing information to overcome societal barriers and stigma associated with hearing impairment. At the venue of the exercise in the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), individuals of all ages, including toddlers, were seen with their parents and guardians for screening. Patients from neighboring states such as Lagos, Delta, Kwara, and Osun also attended the event, highlighting the significance of the initiative in addressing hearing health beyond Ogun State.
