No fewer than 1,000 residents of Idah Local Government Area, Kogi State, are set to benefit from a two-day free medical outreach organised by the Nigerian Navy Out Post (NOP) in the area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the end-of-year medical initiative, which began on Tuesday, includes free consultations, health education, screenings for hepatitis B and C, HIV tests, and blood sugar checks.
Other services provided include blood pressure monitoring, deworming of children, free eye examinations, distribution of medicated glasses, and treated mosquito nets to help improve public health outcomes in the community.
The Commanding Officer of NOP, Commander Nelson Oyagha, said the initiative was a directive from the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, aimed at positively impacting the lives of people living around the naval outpost.
Oyagha added that the Navy would continue building trust with the local community by ensuring safety and creating opportunities for social development, including a skill acquisition programme for more than 200 women in soap making.
He also noted that residents and personnel received training in database analysis to enhance understanding of digital and social market opportunities in their communities, strengthening economic empowerment alongside healthcare initiatives.
The commander emphasised that NOP was working closely with other security agencies to maintain the safety of Idah residents and pledged continued collaboration with the community to ensure security and peace.
Executive Chairman of Idah LGA, Alhaji Alilu Alfa, represented by his aide Mr Yakubu Oyibo, hailed the Navy for its contributions to community development and for improving access to quality healthcare for residents.
Alfa urged residents to remain security conscious and to report suspicious activities, while commending the Navy’s partnership with other agencies in maintaining safety and order in the area.
Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the outreach.
Deaconess Theresa David said she was impressed that the Navy provided quality healthcare to those who otherwise could not afford it, while herder Ado Bello thanked the Navy for the life-saving initiative.
