By In spite of persistent rainfall, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta launched a two-day free medical outreach on Thursday in Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, drawing large numbers from surrounding Gbaramatu communities.
The outreach, held in collaboration with the EMT Foundation, forms part of the Navy’s corporate social responsibility and its non-kinetic approach to securing maritime communities.
Areas of concentration by the naval medical personnel include blood sugar test, blood pressure, eye checks, malaria test, among others with free drugs and medicated glasses.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Commander of NNS Delta, Commodore Abdulazeez Zubairu, represented by Navy Captain Ayi Archibong, said the initiative aligns with the strategic directive of Operation Delta Sanity II, ordered by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.
Commodore Zubairu noted that while the Navy’s core responsibility is securing Nigeria’s maritime borders, it also prioritises building trust and goodwill through civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) activities.
“This outreach is designed to bring essential healthcare services closer to our host communities,” he said. “It is a demonstration of our commitment not just to national security but also to the well-being of citizens.”
He added that the programme was a response to the growing inability of many citizens to access basic healthcare due to economic hardship. Services offered include medical check-ups, treatment, counselling, and free prescription medication.
“We are confident this outreach will ease some of the health burdens and empower beneficiaries with knowledge to manage their health going forward,” he said, appreciating the hospitality of the Okerenkoko community and the dedication of medical personnel involved.
Pastor Christmas Ikare James, Assistant Secretary of Okerenkoko community, described the initiative as timely and impactful. He thanked the Navy for reaching out when many locals are unable to afford medical attention.
Residents from Okerenkoko and neighbouring riverine communities braved the rain to receive care, with the outreach set to conclude on Friday.
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