As part of the build-up to the “Ibadan, This is Love” crusade, medical teams have begun conducting free surgeries for 711 individuals in Ibadan, Oyo State. The initiative, organized under the Christ Compassion to the Rural World (CCRW), is spearheaded by Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, Founder and Senior Pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC).
The crusade, set to take place from November 25 to 30 at Liberty Stadium, will also feature extensive humanitarian efforts, including food distribution and medical care for over 100,000 attendees.
Free Surgeries Across Four Hospitals
Surgeries are being conducted in four hospitals across Oyo State, involving 33 surgeons handling both minor and major cases. Beneficiaries include:
- 400 individuals with severe eye problems
- 80 with fibroids
- 70 with goitre
- 20 with maxillofacial issues requiring plastic surgery
- Others with missing limbs
Pastor Ashimolowo explained that the number of surgeries exceeded initial plans due to overwhelming need. “We told them 400, but they came back begging us because they couldn’t turn away the additional 311 they chose,” he said. “There’s no discrimination; whether Muslim, Christian, or animist, just show up, and you’ll receive help.”
Expanded Medical Outreach
In addition to the pre-crusade surgeries, the event will include two days of free medical care on November 29 and 30. More than 200 doctors, 200 pharmacists, 100 nurses, gynecologists, and pediatricians will provide health assessments and medications to attendees.
Ashimolowo emphasized the lessons learned from a similar crusade in Ikorodu last year, which prompted the extension of medical days for Ibadan. “This time, we’re offering two days of medicals, Friday and Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.,” he said.
Humanitarian Assistance
The crusade is also set to distribute an array of relief items, including:
- Over 100,000 packs of rice, beans, garri, and noodles
- 130,000 pieces of clothing
- 10,000 bottles of oil, packs of sugar, and packs of salt
- 10,000 buckets
Coupons will be distributed nightly, with beneficiaries collecting their gifts the following day.
Spiritual and Social Impact
The crusade aims to address both spiritual and physical needs. On the spiritual side, the event seeks to win 20,000 souls and strengthen the unity of the church. “The vision is to leave Ibadan with a stronger body of ministers and a populated church,” Ashimolowo said.
He also lamented the high cost of medications, highlighting the challenges faced by many Nigerians. “Many of our people endure whatever they can’t afford to treat. That’s why we’re here to provide some relief,” he stated.
Legacy of Compassion
The “Ibadan, This is Love” crusade continues the legacy of showing compassion to distressed Nigerians, blending intense preaching with acts of kindness. Pastor Ashimolowo expressed hope that the initiative would leave a lasting impact on Ibadan, both spiritually and socially.
