Mar 4, 2026 | News
Join ROHSI in marking World Obesity Day 2026!
Today, March 4, 2026, people around the world will unite to raise awareness about the growing obesity crisis. The theme for this year’s World Obesity Day is “8 Billion Reasons to Act on Obesity”.
The 2026 World Obesity Day theme serves as a powerful reminder that obesity is not just an individual issue but a global challenge affecting every one of the 8 billion people on the planet, whether directly or through strained healthcare systems and economies. The statistics are stark: currently, over 1 billion people live with obesity, and by 2035, over half the global population will be living with overweight or obesity.
For Nigeria, these global figures translate into a pressing national crisis. Once considered a problem of high-income countries, obesity is rapidly rising in low- and middle-income nations like ours. As of 2020, Nigeria was already home to an estimated 21 million overweight and 12 million obese adults. This increases the risk of serious health issues like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain cancers.
At ROHSI, we are committed to promoting healthy living and addressing obesity in our communities. The theme “8 billion Reasons” implies that every single person has a role to play.
So, we all need to know:
* Obesity affects 1 in 8 people worldwide.
* In Nigeria, 1 in 5 adults is living with obesity.
* Obesity is linked to serious health complications.
* Early intervention and prevention can save lives.
So, join us in taking action!
* Share your health story or a loved one’s journey with obesity.
* Learn about healthy eating and active living.
* Support obesity awareness initiatives
* Advocate for policies promoting healthy environments
As we are committed to being a beacon of light, providing health education, advocating for justice, and supporting those affected. Let’s work together to create a healthier future for all Nigerians! Let us remember that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community. Together, with 8 billion reasons to act, we can change the story of obesity in Nigeria. Join the Movement. Share Your Reason. Act Today.
#WorldObesityDay #8BillionReasons #ROHSI #ObesityAwareness #HealthyLiving #NigeriaHealth #Obesity #Nigeria #ROHSI3 #Ibadan #Dedoc #Diabetes #hypertension #Cancers #FMoH #NPHCDA #WHO_Nigeria #WHO #Healthlyleaving #HealthyLifestyles #NCDAlliance #Healthcare
Nov 14, 2025 | News
Benjamin Olorunfemi.
November 14th marks World Diabetes Day (WDD), a global awareness campaign led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). This year’s theme, “Diabetes and Well-being”, focuses on the impact of diabetes in the workplace, with the slogan “Know more and do more for diabetes at work.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 830 million people worldwide live with diabetes, with the prevalence increasing rapidly, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Nigeria, an estimated 3.6 to 11 million adults have diabetes, with over 54% remaining undiagnosed.
Millions of people with diabetes face daily challenges managing their condition in the workplace, including stigma, discrimination, and exclusion, which negatively impact their well-being. Research has shown that:
– 7 to 10 people living with diabetes are of working age.
– 3 to 4 people living with diabetes experience anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition due to their diabetes.
– 4 to 5 people living with diabetes experience diabetes burnout
As we mark WDD 2025, we urge the global community and employers to support people living with diabetes and those at risk in the workplace. We encourage everyone to “know more and do more” to promote diabetes awareness, prevention, and management.
Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) invites you to join us in raising awareness and advocating for diabetes. Participate in a diabetes walk, organise a community event, or support organisations providing essential services to people living with diabetes.
Take action today:
– Learn more about diabetes and its impact on well-being.
– Support diabetes awareness initiatives
– Encourage physical activity and healthy lifestyles
– Advocate for inclusive and supportive workplaces
Your health and well-being matter. Join us in creating a world where people living with diabetes can thrive. If you are unsure of your diabetes status, we encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider. Together, we can create a better DiabetesLife.
Oct 1, 2025 | News
Benjamin Olorunfemi
As we celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, I envision a nation where every citizen has access to quality healthcare, regardless of economic status, geographic location, tribe, or language. A Nigeria where leaders genuinely prioritise the health and well-being of their citizens, recognising that a healthy populace is fundamental to the country’s future.
I envision a Nigeria where citizens can access essential healthcare services without facing financial hardship. This is known to be possible through a well-structured healthcare system that is robust and available at all levels, from local community clinics to tertiary institutions.
In this country of mine (Nigeria), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer will not be subjects of debate but conditions that are easily and early detected and managed effectively to prevent complications and premature deaths. Where the cost of medication will be affordable for all citizens, encouraging them to seek medical attention when needed and consistently adhere to their treatment plans.
I foresee a nation where health policies are designed to make a tangible, positive impact on citizens’ lives, moving beyond mere existence on paper. Where policymakers and the government will demonstrate a genuine commitment to serving the healthcare needs of citizens, setting aside personal interests.
A noble country where citizens prioritise their own health by making informed choices about their diet, lifestyle, and healthcare-seeking behaviours.
My country will boast modern, well-equipped healthcare facilities that not only provide quality care to citizens but also become a source of health tourism. Furthermore, I can see a country where citizens will have access to reliable, empowering health information that enables them to make informed decisions about their well-being.
As we celebrate this Independence Day, I see my country becoming a beacon of hope for healthcare in Africa, attracting global recognition. A Nigeria where NCDs, like other health issues, are no longer a leading cause of death, and citizens live healthy, productive lives. This is my dream for Nigeria as we celebrate our independence.
Happy Independence Day to every Nigerian!
Jul 2, 2025 | News
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, the Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) successfully conducted a free medical outreach at Otun Abese Community, Ibadan, Oyo State. Approximately 200 residents, comprising men, women, children, and the elderly, accessed essential healthcare services.
The outreach promoted health awareness, offered medical screenings, provided free medication, and educated the community on healthy living practices. The ROHSI approach focused on proactive health management and accessible care.
At the medical outreach, we provided health education where vital information on maintaining good health, regular medical screenings, and adopting healthy lifestyles were discussed with the participants
Also, there was medical screening to identify various health conditions early, especially on hypertension and diabetes, the two silent killers
Participants also received free medications courtesy of our sponsors and partners. On that day also some individuals that requires further medical attention were referred to appropriate healthcare facilities
Names of individuals with critical medical conditions were listed out for further support and follow-up through our WhatsApp community, where we shared daily health tips and other health opportunities
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors: Codix Pharma Nigeria, Kemisola Bolarinwa through Next Wear Technologies, Africa Social Enterprise Workshop (ASEW) for supporting our social enterprise scheme and other anonymous contributors.
To our host community, Otun Abese Community, for their warmth and hospitality, and our Board of Trustees, Management Team, Staff, and Volunteers for their dedication and hard work. To our family, friends, and ROHSI Community, we say thank you all for your support and generosity. We enjoy always
Major highlights of the outreach:
- A majority of residents are unaware of their health status, highlighting a critical need for increased health awareness campaigns.
- Even those aware of their conditions cannot access necessary care due to the escalating cost of medical services.
- There is an alarming surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly hypertension and diabetes. This trend demands urgent attention from the government and other stakeholders.
- The preventable nature of many NCDs, which are tragically claiming the lives of our working and productive adults, is a significant concern that requires immediate and concerted efforts.
The surge in preventable #NCDs demands urgent intervention from government and stakeholders. We urge:
- The implementation of practical healthcare policies (beyond paperwork).
- Introduction of affordable indigenous health insurance schemes for underserved community
- More partnerships from governments, policymakers and organisations of like minds to expand medical outreach programmes.
We reiterate our profound gratitude to all our sponsors, partners, board, and team members for making this outreach a success. We remain committed to bridging healthcare gaps and working towards accessible quality healthcare for all.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
ROHSI Management Team.
May 17, 2025 | News
Every year on May 17, the global health community observes World Hypertension Day to raise awareness about high blood pressure, a stealthy yet deadly condition affecting over one billion people worldwide. The theme for this year (2025), “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!”, underscores the urgent need for early detection, proper management, and sustained control of hypertension to prevent life-threatening complications.
In low-income countries like Nigeria, hypertension is not just a health issue; it’s a growing epidemic. Often called the “silent killer”, it frequently goes undetected due to a lack of symptoms until severe damage occurs, leading to #stroke, #heartfailure, #kidneydisease, and premature death. Limited healthcare access, low awareness, high treatment costs, and shortages of medical personnel worsen the crisis, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations who lack resources for preventive care.
Nigeria’s struggle with #hypertension reflects broader challenges in low-resource settings:
- Many #Nigerians remain unaware of their condition until complications arise.
- High medication costs and weak healthcare infrastructure hinder effective management.
- Unhealthy diets (high in salt), physical inactivity, tobacco use, and stress contribute to rising cases.
Without urgent intervention, #hypertension will continue to strain already fragile health systems, increasing preventable deaths from cardiovascular diseases.
Like other #NGOs working within the health space, #ROHSI3 is making a tangible difference by combating hypertension at the grassroots through:
Community Screenings! Providing free #bloodpressure checks to detect undiagnosed cases.
Awareness Campaigns! Educating communities on risks, prevention, and management.
* Health Education! Promoting low-salt diets, regular exercise, stress management, and smoking/alcohol cessation.
Affordable Medication Access! Ensuring people with hypertension can obtain low-cost antihypertensive drugs.
Continuity of Care! Collaborating with stakeholders to support long-term management for patients.
Our work demonstrates how local interventions save lives where formal healthcare systems fall short.
Today we are saying, together, we can defeat hypertension! To turn the tide against this silent killer, we need collective effort:
To Government & Policymaker, please:
- We are saying, Integrate hypertension screening into primary healthcare systems.
- Subsidise medications and enforce salt reduction policies (e.g., food labelling regulations).
- Launch nationwide public health campaigns on prevention.
To pharmaceutical companies, please:
- Expand access to low-cost generic medications.
- Partner with NGOs such as ours and governments to improve drug availability in underserved areas.
To International Health Bodies (#WHO, #WorldHypertensionLeague, #NCDAlliance, #WorldHeartFederation, etc.):
- Support training programmes for healthcare workers.
- Fund research and tailored interventions for hypertension in low-income countries.
To Our People: What You Can Do:
* Get screened regularly! Early detection saves lives.
* Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle! Reduce salt, exercise, quit smoking/alcohol, and manage stress.
* Spread Awareness! Encourage family and friends to monitor their blood pressure.
We are saying together we can put a stop to the surge of hypertension if detected early and controlled effectively. This World Hypertension Day, let’s commit to:
- Measuring our blood pressure accurately
- Controlling it through lifestyle changes and medication
- Living longer by adopting healthier habits
Through community efforts, government action, and global support, we can defeat this silent killer in Nigeria and beyond.
Courtesy: Rays Of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) Management Team
#LeadOnNCDs #who_nigeria #codixpharma #ActOnNCDs #rohsicares #Rohsi3 #NPHCDA #NCDs #ibadan #WorldHypertensionDay
Dec 21, 2024 | News
Rays of Hope Support Initiative: Path to Healthier Lives in Ibadan
Rays of Hope Support Initiative: Path to Healthier Lives in Ibadan
Nigeria’s Silent Health Crisis: Hypertension and Diabetes
More than 20 million Nigerians are living and battling with hypertension silently, while more than 11 million live with diabetes. More than half of those affected by these silent killers are unaware of their health status. Even among those who are aware, many are not taking action. Those trying to seek care are hindered by economic challenges and unable to afford or access health care. As a result, they resign to their fate, waiting for the inevitable.
Nearly 30% of deaths in Nigeria, either at the hospital or at home, stem from NCDs. The nation’s potential brightest contributors are lost to these illnesses. The most vulnerable are hit hardest, as a lack of resources cuts their dreams short.
Rays of Hope Support Initiative
Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) has been operational since 2017. Located in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. ROHSI is dedicated to combating the rising burden of NCDs in Ibadan and Nigeria, where it has been implementing innovative solutions to address these pressing issues. As an organization working within the NCD health space, ROHSI has focused on empowering vulnerable populations, such as older people, women and children, who are disproportionately affected by NCDs. This involves providing targeted interventions, addressing social determinants of health and ensuring equitable access to health care services.
The ROHSI team, since inception, has been working closely with local health care providers through collaboration and partnerships to ensure that individuals with NCDs, especially hypertension and diabetes, receive appropriate treatment and care. This includes providing access to essential medications and connecting patients with support services. Through its community-based health education initiative, the organization conducts regular health education programs to raise awareness about NCDs, especially hypertension and diabetes, their risk factors and preventive measures.
These sessions are tailored to the specific needs of the community, ensuring that information is accessible and understandable. Furthermore, the ROHSI early detection and screening program allows for timely intervention, reducing the likelihood of severe complications, therefore saving many lives from avoidable deaths.
Impact of Rays of Hope Support Initiative
ROHSI’s efforts have yielded significant results in improving the health and well-being of the community in Ibadan. It has educated more than 10,000 citizens on disease prevention with an emphasis on hypertension and diabetes. The organization has made an impact across three states, reaching more than 5,000 direct beneficiaries through free screenings and medication.
The nonprofit currently has a thriving online community with access to daily, up-to-date health tips. More than 1,500 members are part of its combined Facebook group, with thousands more across other social media platforms, where they access up-to-date information on health-related issues.
Many of ROHSI’s community members have reported a significant improvement in their quality of life as a result of the team interventions, including reduced symptoms, increased energy levels and greater independence.
Final Note
ROHSI has strengthened its community members’ resilience by empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being. It has done so through daily health tips and free access to its medical team for guidance on health and wellness issues. The organization has advocated for favourable health policy changes from the Nigerian government and policymakers to address the root causes of NCDs and improve access to health care services in Nigeria. It does this by fostering partnerships and collaborations with like-minded local and international organizations.
Coutersy: The Borgen Project & ROHSI
