Mr. Emeka Nwajiuba, an aspirant for the 2027 presidential election, has emphasized that good health is critical to Nigeria’s political development, as healthy citizens are better equipped to participate meaningfully in governance and nation-building.
Nwajiuba made the statement on Wednesday in Abuja during a free medical outreach organized for members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at the party’s National Secretariat.
The outreach was organized by the Dr. Patrick Ezie Campaign Organization—a House of Representatives aspirant—in collaboration with the Nwajiuba Solidarity Movement (NSM). The programme, themed “United for a Healthier Nigeria,” was supported by Silver Cross Hospitals and Foundation, Abuja.
Nwajiuba, a former Minister of State for Education, described NSM as a coalition of young professionals across the country committed to reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape and providing fresh direction.
He said the movement reflects a growing awakening among youths, medical professionals, entrepreneurs, and academics who share a common vision for national progress.
“Nigeria must move in a clearer and more defined direction. This movement is about unity of purpose,” he said.
Nwajiuba stressed that national transformation must begin with citizens’ well-being, adding that only healthy individuals can think clearly, serve effectively, and contribute positively to political and economic systems.
“Only citizens who are in good health can participate fully in the democratic process, hence the importance of this medical outreach,” he added.
Commenting on the recent FCT Area Council election, Nwajiuba described the ADC’s performance as a learning experience. He said the objective was to engage Nigerians rather than manipulate the electoral process.
“We are not out to rig elections or break the law. Our focus is on engaging Nigerians to examine the party’s values and what it offers at both local and national levels,” he said.
He noted that lessons from the election would strengthen future preparations, emphasizing that growth comes from reflection and continuous improvement.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Patrick Ezie, Chief Executive Officer of Silver Cross Hospitals and Foundation, explained that the initiative screened participants for vital health indicators, including blood pressure and blood sugar levels, to identify those at risk of serious medical conditions.
He revealed that several participants were found to have dangerously high blood pressure, while some were newly diagnosed with diabetes.
“Many of the patients who should have been in hospitals came to us unaware that their blood pressure was at risky levels,” Ezie said.
“The event emphasizes the importance of proactive healthcare, especially among political and community leaders. A healthy nation begins with healthy citizens,” he added.
Ezie also highlighted shortcomings observed before and during the area council election, including restrictions that he said limited voter participation, particularly among those living outside the city centre.
He expressed concern that such developments could erode public confidence in the electoral system if not properly addressed.
The medical outreach combines health service delivery with political mobilization, underscoring the link between citizens’ well-being and active participation in democratic processes as Nigeria approaches future elections.
