45th Anniversary Celebration: Association of Friends Bring Health Succour to Neigbourhood Communities with Free Eye Test

The 45th-anniversary celebration of the Association of Friends, known as ‘Up Asso,’ began with a commendable health intervention program on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the Association’s club house, Maryland, Lagos.

The association initiated a one-day medical outreach offering free eye tests to over 1,000 residents in the Onigbongbo, Wassimi, and Maryland communities of Ikeja, Lagos State. This outreach was part of the association’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative and was organized in collaboration with the Eye Foundation in GRA, Ikeja.

The Social/Publicity Secretary of the Association, Mr. Aliu Mohammed Olurotimi, highlighted the significance of the community health intervention program. He stated that it aligns with the policy thrust initiatives of the Club’s President, Otunba Kole Olatunji, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to neighboring communities. The aim is not only to create a positive impact but also to open up the Club to foster good neighborliness and attract quality membership.

Mr. Olurotimi emphasized that the free eye test initiative is in line with global expectations, particularly with regard to access to primary healthcare, a key focus of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and later Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He said, “the association aims to contribute to changing the narrative by engaging in carefully planned charitable actions that positively affect the surrounding communities while pursuing its primary objective of fostering fellowship among like-minded individuals.”

A resident of the Wassimi neighborhood, Mr. David Oluwaseun George, expressed gratitude on behalf of the community. As an ex-banker turned businessman, he commended the Association of Friends for the initiative, acknowledging that it provided access to healthcare that many residents might not have been able to afford during this critical time.

George remarked that “every organization should endeavor to do this kind of program, considering that not many people can afford this needed medical access and I must commend the Association for this initiative. I personally wish them more fulfilling years ahead.”

Another satisfied beneficiary of free eye test who gave her name as Mrs. Olasumbo said she was just passing and saw the banner advertising the program and decided to check it out but “see me now, I have a free reading glass”. Continuing, she said, “what I witnessed here today has renewed my faith in humanity. While I commend the Asso people, this kind of situation calls for increased efforts by more kind-hearted individuals and organizations”.

Importantly, this free eye test initiative under the pragmatic leadership of Otunba Kole Olatunji, not only reflects the association’s commitment to community welfare but also showcases its dedication to making a positive impact as it celebrates 45 years of existence.

The free Eye Test marks the Day-1 activity in the four days schedule of events lined up for the anniversary. Many of the Club’s elders, members and organizing committee members participated in the program.

The approved program of events for the anniversary includes:

DAY 1 – Tuesday, November 21, 2023
Community health intervention of free eye test to residents in the immediate locality of the Club House.

DAY 2 – Wednesday, November 22, 2023
Business summit: Two papers with themes aligned with the Association’s aims and objectives. The first Paper with the theme “OMOLUABI: Tenets, Concepts, Ethos, Practices, and Culture” will be presented by Chief Abayomi Majekodunmi, a renowned banker and financial expert. The second paper entitled: “What Citizens Need To Know About The Centre Of Excellence” will be delivered by Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, Lagos State Commissioner for Information.

DAY 3 – Friday, November 24, 2023
Inter-religious prayer session.

DAY 4 – Sunday, November 26, 2023
45th Anniversary Gala Night, Presidential Night, Induction of New Members and Launching of a special Association Development Fund.