The Nigerian Navy Outpost Koluama has given free medical services to over 1,000 residents of the Koluama II community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The Commanding Officer, Naval Outpost, Koluama II, Stephen Agwai, said during the exercise on Saturday, that the essence of the free medical service was to promote cooperation with the host community.
The medical services included checkup, consultations, health education, distribution of insecticide-treated nets and medication amongst others.
Agwai said the exercise would impact the community positively and further help in reducing the health challenges of the indigenes.
He said the outreach was part of the navy’s corporate social responsibility to the people, as a host community that had accommodated it to ensure it performed its constitutional role.
Agwai said, “As we embark on this free medical rhapsody, we reaffirm our commitment to the well-being and prosperity of every Nigerian. Health is fundamental to human existence.
“Therefore, as part of its corporate social responsibility, the Nigerian Navy deems it fit to ensure that quality healthcare reaches every corner of our nation. Hence, the Koluama II community was selected for this outreach.
“The Koluama II community in Southern Ijaw LGA of Bayelsa holds a special place in our hearts, and it is fitting that we begin our commemoration here. Today, we bring not only medical expertise but also compassion, care and solidarity.”
He urged the residents to take full advantage of the opportunity saying that they should take health matters seriously by seeking medical care.
The commanding officer commended and expressed gratitude to the medical personnel and volunteers for their dedication to making the event possible.
He said: “Your selfless service embodies the spirit of the Nigerian Navy and your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.”
The Secretary, Council of Chiefs, Koluama II community, J.A. Ekubo, commended the Nigerian Navy for the free medical services brought to the community.
Ekubo said it was the second time the navy was doing such free medical outreach explaining that “we are fishermen, most of us don’t know our health status. This has given us a great opportunity.”
One of the beneficiaries, Ebi Tebowei, commended the navy for choosing their community for the free medical services.
Tebowei said he was tested and administered free medication, and that he never knew he had high blood pressure and low sugar level.
