Arik Air, has announced a collaboration with Hospitals for Humanity to offer free open-heart surgeries to approximately 150 Nigerian children each year.
This initiative according to a statement by the airline underscores its commitment to corporate social responsibility by addressing a critical healthcare need in the country.
This partnership between Arik Air and Hospitals for Humanity aims to bridge this gap, offering a beacon of hope for many Nigerian families.
As part of this vital partnership, Arik Air will provide crucial flight support for Hospitals for Humanity’s medical missions to Nigeria.
These missions bring together a dedicated team of volunteer pediatric cardiac surgeons and healthcare professionals from around the world.
These experts perform complex heart surgeries at no cost to the families, a significant relief for those facing limited access to specialized medical care.
Arik Air’s support is instrumental in streamlining the logistics for both the young patients and their parents traveling from distant locations to the surgery sites, as well as for the volunteer healthcare professionals. This ease of movement is vital in ensuring the smooth execution of these life-saving procedures.
Chief Executive Officer of Arik Air, Captain Roy Ilegbodu expressed his profound honour in supporting Hospitals for Humanity.
“We are honored to stand alongside Hospitals for Humanity in their mission to give hope and a second chance at life to children with congenital heart defects,” Captain Ilegbodu stated.
“This initiative aligns with Arik Air’s dedication to not only connecting people through air travel but also investing in the wellbeing of our communities.”
Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Hospitals for Humanity, Dr. Segun Ajayi,
highlighted the ongoing demand for such critical care.
“Over the years, Hospitals for Humanity has performed numerous successful surgeries and impacted countless lives,” Dr. Ajayi commented.
“However, the demand remains high, and with continued support from organizations like Arik Air, even more children can receive the critical care they need.”
Congenital heart disease continues to be a leading cause of death among children globally, particularly in developing nations where access to specialized surgical interventions is severely limited.
