A non-governmental organization, Foundation for Advocacy and Sensitization on Tuberculosis (FAST) has paid off surgical bill of a 13 year-old teenage boy.

The founder of the foundation, Dr. (Mrs.) Misitura Lawal-Arowona, revealed this on Monday at its unveiling and her convocation ceremony in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

The multiple award winning researcher and chemist noted that the foundation was birthed as a result of her love for humanity, quality teaching and research, and understanding the peculiarity of our society.

She further said, “it is a truism to say that health is wealth and it is on this note that The Foundation for Advocacy and Sensitization on Tuberculosis (FAST) will today grant the request by 13 year old patient, Nwafor Emmanuel from the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, who has been clinically diagnosed of Nasopharyngeal Tumor, a likely cancer illness that this foundation will pay.”

To get the necessary response to tackle the disease, the researcher who is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero, therefore called on the President Bola Tinubu-led government to prioritise research as well as support for patients with tuberculosis

“At this juncture, I hereby urge the Federal Government of Nigeria under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR, to prioritize funding of research and providing adequate support for patients of tuberculosis, especially women and children due to their vulnerability,” she noted.

Dr. Lawal-Arowona bagged from the University of Ilorin Bachelor of Science Degree (B.Sc Chemistry), Master of Science Degree, (M.Sc Chemistry) and Doctor of Philosophy, (PhD Chemistry) even as her academic accomplishments was precipitated and enhanced by the quality research and thorough mentorship which she acquired during stay at the universiti teknologi, Johor, Malaysia and at the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in India.

There, she made a scientific breakthrough of developing Anti- Tuberculosis Drug Metal Complexes which was celebrated globally and flooded the media in India and other parts of the world.

“I also participated in an international conclave in Chennai, India where I emerged 3rd globally. It is on this note that I decided to continue in my strong Advocacy and Sensitization on Tuberculosis which led to the emergence of the foundation that we are unveiling today,” she noted.

The Commissioner for Health in the State, Dr. Amina El-Imam commended the graduands for attaining a wonderful and enviable feat of Doctoral Degree against all odds stressing that many people have dropped in the academic journey to pursue a PhD but I am happy that you made it.

She also lauded her for a her foresight of establishing a the Foundation for Advocacy and Sensitization on Tuberculosis, (FAST) in order to compliment government’s efforts in the area of sensitization and advocacy in the health sector.

While making his remarks, the Group Managing Director of KAM Holding Limited, Dr. Kamoru Yusuf MON announced a pledge of the sum N1million towards the actualization of the vision of the newly unveiled foundation even as he commended Dr. Lawal-Arowona for her laudable contributions to research and scholarship.

Dr. Yusuf also urged and guardians to encourage their children and wards to venture into science and technology based courses and career adding that, “Science and Technology is the way to go globally in a bid to meet up with trending challenges and global demands.”

The Provost of the Nigeria Army College of Education, (NACOE) Sobi barracks, Ilorin, Brig. Gen. Solomon Inuwa expressed his delight over the landmark achievements made by the Researcher and for putting in place an NGO to cater and support patients of Tuberculosis ailments.

In her keynote address, Princess Joan Jummai Idonije, noted education of the girl child, is a cornerstone of progress and development, adding that “it is not just an investment in an individual, but an investment in the future of our Nation. This is smart economics and should be encouraged by all.

“As we honour Dr. Lawal-Arowona, let her journey serve as an inspiration to us all, highlighting the incredible potential that is unlocked when girls are given access to quality education.

“Today, Dr. Misitura has become a world class researcher of repute. While in India she discovered the breakthrough of Antituberculosis drug metal complexes with the compounds showing a higher efficacy than the active pharmaceutical ingredients, ushering in a new way of addressing cure for tuberculosis.”

“In addition to celebrating the academic excellence of Dr. Misitura Lawal-Arowona, we also come together today to address a critical public health issue – tuberculosis.

“Tuberculosis is a global concern, and our commitment to the Foundation for Advocacy and Sensitization on Tuberculosis (FAST), underscores our dedication to raising awareness, eradicating stigma, and improving access to healthcare.”

She however made a cash donation of the sum of N200,000 to support the foundation.

Also, the Director of Mobilisation for the foundation, Mr. Teddy Ozuem noted that collective effort is required to kick tuberculosis out.

“Our journey is one steeped in compassion, knowledge, and action. The heartbeat of our endeavor resonates in our tagline, “Building Bridges to TB-Free Communities.”

He stressed that the foundation comprehend that the battle against tuberculosis extends beyond medical remedies, which necessitates weaving bridges of awareness, comprehension, and support within our communities.

“FAST embodies not just an organization, but a fervent movement, propelled by the collective zeal to effect substantial change.

“Within FAST, our initiatives are fortified in advocacy, awareness, community sensitization, supportive services, and groundbreaking research. We advocate ardently for policies prioritizing tuberculosis research, prevention, and treatment. Through laser-focused awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars, we shatter myths and empower communities with knowledge.”

The Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) Ilorin Zonal Office, Barr. Michael Nzekwe, who presented the letter of commitment to the 14year-old patient, expressed delight over the gesture extended to the beneficiary stressing that, “Nigeria can only grow when tribalism and ethnicity is eradicated from the society.

“From the name of the patient, Emmanuel Nwafor, we can all see that he is an Igbo by tribe, but this foundation have decided to support him, thereby breaking the jinx of tribalism and ethnicity. And I want to tell you that is what we need to move Nigeria forward.”