A Consultant Physician and Nephrologist, Dr. Raphael Onyemekihia, has raised concern over the high prevalence of hypertension and diabetes among residents of Agbor, Delta State, warning that everyday lifestyle practices are contributing to a growing burden of kidney disease.
The warning came during a four-day medical outreach held as part of the Minister’s Medical Conference 2026, organised by Grace International in collaboration with Anchor of Hope Ministries Inc..
The programme, themed “Health is Wealth,” was hosted at Kingdom Heritage Assembly, Boji-Boji Owa, Agbor, under the leadership of Rev. Thomas Ukwute, and held from March 23 to March 26.
A total of 485 persons registered for the outreach, while 355 received treatment, including consultations, screenings, and free medication. Daily figures showed 96 treated on day one, 96 on day two, 90 on day three, and 73 on the final day.
Medical services ranged from general consultations and laboratory screenings to maternal care and pharmaceutical support, alongside spiritual counselling.
Onyemekihia said the outreach revealed alarming cases of uncontrolled hypertension, with some patients recording blood pressure levels as high as 200/140. He linked rising kidney disease to untreated chronic conditions, misuse of painkillers such as ibuprofen and diclofenac, unregulated herbal remedies, and exposure to toxic substances.
He also warned against risky practices, including siphoning fuel by mouth, and reliance on unlicensed drug vendors, noting that delayed medical intervention often worsens health outcomes.
Other contributors at the conference included Professor Macdonald Idu and a team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists.
Participants who benefited from the outreach described it as impactful and life-changing.
One of them, Biachi Pius, expressed gratitude for the care received. He said he was initially uncertain but became convinced after witnessing the level of attention given to patients. He prayed that the efforts of the organisers would yield lasting results and bring healing to beneficiaries.
Similarly, Rev. Peter E.K. Ebony of Living World Gospel Mission described the programme as “outstanding,” noting that it brought together experienced professionals whose contributions had a lasting impact on participants.
He said the sessions improved understanding of human health, particularly the functions of vital organs and preventive care. Reflecting on Onyemekihia’s lecture, he noted the importance of early intervention, explaining that acute conditions could be reversed if promptly addressed, unlike chronic illnesses.
Elder Mrs Ruth Nosegbe, a member of World Action Team, said she attended the programme with health complaints but experienced relief after receiving care. She also commended the lectures, which, according to her, provided practical guidance on diet and managing conditions such as high blood pressure and blood sugar.
Other beneficiaries, including Patricia Onwenize and Mrs Edith Okwouokenye, also expressed appreciation for the free medical services. Okwouokenye highlighted the thorough examinations and quality of medication provided at no cost, offering prayers for the organisers and donors.
“This programme came at the right time. It may have saved lives,” Onyemekihia said.
On behalf of his family, Ukwute thanked partnering pastors, church leaders, and medical teams for their support. He gave special recognition to Rev. and Pastor Mrs Success Atewe and members of Kingdom Heritage Assembly for hosting the programme, as well as the medical team from Mount Horeb Hospital, Warri.
He also invited participants to the upcoming Easter Camp Meeting scheduled for April 2 to 6 in Warri.
Onyemekihia advised residents to prioritise regular medical check-ups and adhere to prescribed treatments, stressing that while hypertension may not be cured, it can be effectively managed with proper care.