Senator Alphonsus Igbeke, popularly known as Ubanese, has been appointed as an advisory board member of Saving Life for Africa Foundation (SLAD), a non-governmental organisation founded by foremost actor and producer, Obi Madubuogwu of the ‘Battle of Musanga’ fame.

The appointment was officially announced on Sunday at the foundation’s Nollywood Health Convention and Awards 2015, held in Lagos.

In a statement jointly signed by Paul Julius, Secretary, NHCA; Emeka Rollas, Chairman of NHCA, and Obi Madubogwu, President of SLAD – and made available to News Express – the foundation explained why Ubanese chosen: “In view of his track records as a foremost nationalist who has over the years worked tirelessly to enthrone a just and equitable society that every Nigerian is proud of, aside his legendary philanthropic nature over the years.”

The statement added: “Because health issues are generally treated as mundane in this part of the world, which has cost a lot of human lives out of ignorance and negligence, Saving Life for Africa Diabetes Foundation was established. In order to curb this menace, professionals from Nollywood have come together to take up this onerous challenge of healthcare awareness campaign with a bull-eye on Diabetes Mellitus. The campaign is geared towards educating the public in the rural areas, to create more awareness as well as tackle issues of poverty and negligence.”

The Nollywood Health Convention and Awards is an all-activity programme designed for speech-making and lectures by core health professionals, to educate people on health related matters, exhibition of health products, free samples of health products, free cervical/prostate cancer screening, among others.

•Photo shows Senator Igbeke.