The Angwandalandi community on Saturday celebrated the grand opening of Purissima Hospital and Maternity, marked by a free medical outreach that offered consultations, testing, and health education for families.
The event began with a Holy Mass led by Rev. Fr. Francis Ejiro of St. Fabian Catholic Church, Dakwa, assisted by Rev. Fr. John Obi and Rev. Fr. Augustine. In his homily, Fr. Obi urged residents to use their God-given talents in service to others—echoing the hospital’s mission of compassionate care rooted in spiritual values.
Welcoming guests, Dr. Nneka Maryann Odo, Medical Director of Purissima Hospital, described the facility as a “symbol of hope, healing, and life.” She emphasized its mission to deliver affordable healthcare to underserved mothers, children, and families, while calling for partnerships with organizations such as the Malaria Consortium and the Institute for Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) to sustain community health programs.
“Good health is the right of all people, not a privilege,” Dr. Odo affirmed, as residents hailed the hospital’s arrival as a life-changing milestone.
Goodwill messages flowed in from dignitaries, including Dr. Ezinwa Enyinnaya of the Malaria Consortium, who pledged future support, and Ms. Lami of IHVN, who announced free HIV testing for residents.
Also present were Dr. Gideon of General Hospital Suleja, HRH the Dagachi of Dakwa, and Dr. Uche Nwokwu of the Federal Ministry of Health, who all praised the initiative. Dr. Nwokwu delivered a health talk highlighting the importance of preventive care, routine check-ups, and healthy living.
The outreach continued with free consultations, medical services, and distribution of medication well into the afternoon. One beneficiary, Hajiya Rahamatu Ibrahim, described Purissima as “a beacon of hope for Angwandalandi”, stressing that the hospital would greatly improve healthcare access and strengthen community ties.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Nnamdi Odo thanked guests for their support and announced the commencement of ongoing free medical check-ups, HIV testing, and consultations.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic cutting of the tape and a guided tour of the new hospital facilities, which many described as the beginning of a new era in healthcare for Angwandalandi and its neighboring communities.
