No fewer than 1,000 residents of Idah Local Government Area in Kogi State are set to benefit from a two-day free medical outreach organized by the Nigeria Navy Outpost (NOP) in the community.
The end-of-year medical initiative, which began on Tuesday, offers free consultations, health education, screenings for hepatitis B and C, HIV tests, and blood sugar checks.
Other services include blood pressure monitoring, deworming for children, free eye examinations, distribution of medicated glasses, and treated mosquito nets, all aimed at improving public health in the area.
The Commanding Officer of NOP, Commander Nelson Oyagha, said the outreach followed a directive from the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to positively impact the lives of people living around naval formations.
Oyagha added that the Navy remained committed to building trust with the host community by ensuring safety and creating opportunities for social development. He highlighted a skill acquisition programme that has trained more than 200 women in soap making.
He also noted that residents and naval personnel had received training in database analysis to improve their understanding of digital and social market opportunities, thereby enhancing economic empowerment alongside the healthcare interventions.
The commander further stated that the NOP was working closely with other security agencies to ensure the safety of Idah residents and pledged continued collaboration with the community to maintain peace and security.
The Executive Chairman of Idah LGA, Alilu Alfa, represented by his aide, Mr. Yakubu Oyibo, commended the Navy for its contributions to community development and for expanding access to quality healthcare services.
Alfa urged residents to remain security conscious and report suspicious activities, while praising the Navy’s partnership with other agencies in maintaining order in the area.
Some beneficiaries also 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.
