Every year, World Kidney Day reminds us that kidney disease is one of the most overlooked health challenges in our communities. In Nigeria, many people only discover they have a kidney problem when it is already at an advanced stage — when the damage is harder to reverse and treatment is more difficult.
This year, the Atim Ekanem Foundation decided to do something about that. We took the message out of the clinic and into the streets.
The Rally That Started at the Flyover
On a bright morning in March 2026, volunteers, youth groups, civil society representatives, and community members gathered at the Atiku Abubakar Flyover in Uyo. The energy was calm but purposeful. Everyone understood why they were there.
The awareness rally moved through major roads in the city, stopping at every opportunity to speak directly with residents — traders on their way to the market, commuters, children watching from the roadside, neighbours stepping out of their homes.
“Healthy Kidneys for a Healthy Life”
Volunteers carried placards and banners with kidney health messages. Megaphones were used to share clear, simple information about what kidneys do, what puts them at risk, and what every person can do today to protect them.
The rally concluded at Ibom Plaza, where participants gathered for a final session to reinforce key messages and appreciate everyone who showed up.
What Were We Telling People?
The awareness messages focused on practical, everyday actions. These were the core points shared during the rally:
- Drink enough clean water every day — dehydration is one of the most preventable causes of kidney strain.
- Manage your blood pressure. High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease, and many Nigerians live with it undetected.
- Control your blood sugar. Diabetes damages the kidneys over time, often without early symptoms.
- Go for early screening. Kidney disease is treatable when caught early. Waiting is the biggest risk.
The Community Showed Up
What stood out most was how people responded. Residents stopped to listen. Traders asked questions. Young people joined the walk. There was genuine curiosity and concern — a clear sign that when information is brought to the community in a respectful and accessible way, people want to engage.
Dr. Bassey, Director of Public Health, participated in the event alongside the Primary Health Care Development Agency. Their presence was a reminder that community advocacy and institutional health systems must work together if we want to see real change.
When communities are informed, they make better health decisions.
Why This Matters
Kidney disease does not have to reach a crisis point before we act. That is the message the Atim Ekanem Foundation is committed to sharing — not just on World Kidney Day, but throughout the year.
The rally was one step. The work continues through education, screening, community outreach, and advocacy for better access to kidney health services across Nigeria.
If you live in Akwa Ibom State or anywhere in Nigeria and you have concerns about your kidney health, please do not wait. Speak to a doctor. Get tested. Share this information with someone you care about.
Together, we can protect our communities — one kidney at a time.
