In the busy streets of Lagos where buying and selling never stops, a new way of providing healthcare is bringing hope to market men and women. Many of these traders work from early morning till late at night, often forgetting to take care of their own health because they don’t have the time or money to go to hospitals. But now, thanks to the effort of a Nigerian doctor, medical care is coming directly to them right inside the market.
Dr. Yetunde Ayo-Oyalowo, a passionate medical doctor and social entrepreneur, is the woman behind this idea. She started a project called Market Doctors in 2017. Her goal is to make sure everyday Nigerians, especially traders, can receive basic medical treatment without having to close their shops or travel far. The mobile clinics she runs are set up inside popular Lagos markets where doctors, nurses and volunteers offer services like blood pressure checks, malaria tests, diabetes screening and even minor treatments — all at very affordable prices.
Dr. Ayo-Oyalowo understands the real struggles of market people. She says that many traders avoid hospitals not just because of the hospital bills but also because of hidden costs like transportation and the income they lose from being away from their stalls. By bringing the clinic to the market, she is removing these barriers. “It’s not just about giving medicine, it’s about meeting people where they are,” she said in a recent interview.
So far, the Market Doctors initiative has helped over 400,000 Nigerians. The project has a team of 17 full-time staff and works with hundreds of volunteers who believe in the mission. They receive support through private and corporate donations. Even though they are not funded by the government, they continue to grow because of the support they receive from people who understand the importance of taking healthcare closer to the people.
Nigeria is currently facing a serious shortage of doctors. According to recent data, there are only four doctors for every 10,000 Nigerians. The World Health Organization recommends at least ten doctors per 10,000 people. This gap has made it difficult for many people, especially those in poor or crowded areas, to access proper medical care. Initiatives like Market Doctors are helping to close that gap by providing services to those who might otherwise be left out.
What makes this project stand out is that it is not just about treating sickness, but also about teaching people how to prevent illness. Many traders who come for check-ups are learning for the first time about things like the importance of regular blood pressure checks, eating healthy, or managing stress. The more they learn, the more they begin to take their health seriously.
The impact of this work is already showing. Market leaders are now encouraging their members to take advantage of the services. Some markets have even set aside spaces for the mobile clinics to operate regularly. This kind of cooperation is a good sign that Nigerians are ready for new ideas that make life easier.
Dr. Yetunde Ayo-Oyalowo’s work is a clear example of how a simple but thoughtful idea can bring big change. Her project has become a model for others across the country who want to bring services directly to the people who need them the most. As Market Doctors continues to expand, it is proving that no Nigerian should have to choose between making money and staying healthy.
