The Rabiu Olowo Foundation has concluded a five-day community outreach programme in Bariga, Lagos State, marking the launch of a broader nationwide initiative aimed at delivering free healthcare services directly to communities across Nigeria.
The outreach combined the foundation’s 10K Genotype and 10K Health initiatives and sets the stage for expansion into multiple locations throughout 2026.
The Bariga intervention was conducted over five intensive days across four different locations within the community. The extended format enabled wider participation, allowing residents sufficient time to access services without the limitations of a single-day event. Throughout the programme, the foundation provided genotype testing, health insurance enrolment and sickle cell awareness services to ensure broad community coverage.
More than 2,000 residents were reached during the five-day exercise, with over 1,055 genotype tests conducted. In addition, more than five sickle cell warriors were enrolled into the foundation’s healthcare insurance programme, granting them access to continued medical care and support. In cases requiring urgent medical attention, the foundation covered hospital bills for warriors in need of immediate intervention, underscoring its commitment to both preventive care and emergency support.
Residents benefited from three core services. Free genotype testing was provided to equip individuals with essential information about their genetic compatibility, enabling informed decisions on family planning and the prevention of sickle cell disease. Sickle cell warriors were enrolled into a free health insurance scheme designed to ensure access to medications, specialist care and ongoing treatment without financial strain. Educational sessions were also conducted to increase awareness of sickle cell disease, its prevention and management, thereby strengthening community understanding and preparedness.
Following the Bariga outreach, the foundation announced a series of scheduled programmes across the country. In March 2026, TROF will hold a one-week free genotype screening in Ibadan, Oyo State, extending its services to reach a broader segment of the population. In the same month, the foundation will conduct another one-week free genotype screening in Ikorodu, Lagos State, expanding coverage within the state to additional local government areas.
In April 2026, the foundation will undertake a water intervention project in Dange-Shuni Community, Sokoto State. The initiative reflects a broader approach to community development, recognising the link between access to clean water and overall health outcomes. Additional outreach locations are expected to be announced as the year progresses.
The foundation’s outreach strategy is anchored on the principle of inclusion, with a focus on eliminating barriers to essential healthcare services. In many communities, the cost of genotype testing and limited access to health insurance restrict access to critical health information and care. The ongoing initiative seeks to address these gaps by bringing services directly to residents.
For individuals living with sickle cell disease, who often face social and economic challenges alongside medical needs, the programme provides structured medical support and sustained access to care. For young Nigerians making decisions about marriage and family planning, access to free genotype testing offers essential information aimed at preventing the transmission of sickle cell disease.
The foundation’s outreach calendar spans urban centres such as Bariga and Ikorodu, as well as rural communities including Dange-Shuni in Sokoto State, reflecting a commitment to equitable service delivery regardless of geography. By situating services within communities, the initiative removes barriers linked to distance, cost and limited healthcare infrastructure.
The Bariga outreach marks the beginning of an expanded national effort that integrates screening, insurance enrolment, education and infrastructure support into a unified community health model. As implementation progresses across the 2026 calendar, each outreach location becomes part of a growing network of communities equipped with the knowledge and tools to improve health outcomes and prevent avoidable diseases.
For updates on upcoming outreach programmes or to support the initiative, the Rabiu Olowo Foundation can be contacted via [info@therabiuolowofoundation.org](mailto:info@therabiuolowofoundation.org). Communities seeking to host future programmes and stakeholders interested in sponsorship partnerships are encouraged to engage with the foundation.