By Dayo Johnson

As part of activities marking its 70th anniversary, the Nigerian Navy has held a medical outreach in coastal communities of Ondo State to promote goodwill, healthy living, and stronger ties with host communities.

Speaking during the outreach, Commanding Officer of Forward Operating Base Igbokoda, Navy Capt. Andy Alemongwa, said the initiative was designed to encourage proper health practices, hygiene, and environmental sanitation among residents.

Alemongwa said that the outreach was organised by FOB Igbokoda as one of the events commemorating the Navy’s 70th anniversary.

He described the celebration as a landmark focused on operational excellence and community service under Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Idi Abbas.

The commanding officer thanked the Flag Officer Commanding for supporting the base and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for welcoming the Navy in the state.

He said the Navy had prioritised humanitarian and medical support to improve the well-being of people in riverine communities.

According to him, “This medical outreach is one of the activities lined up to commemorate the Nigerian Navy at 70.

“It is also part of our commitment to improving healthcare delivery and strengthening our relationship with host communities,” he said.

The traditional ruler and residents of Abereke Community thanked the Navy for bringing free medical services to the area.

Oba Darosha Oladayo Mesagan, Oloja of Abereke Community, said he was glad the outreach took place in his community during his lifetime.

He commended the Chief of Naval Staff for organising it and praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for supporting initiatives that improve rural welfare.

Youth Secretary of Abereke Community, Ogunbay Ogunle Kisamwe, said the outreach brought relief and joy to residents, including children, adults, and the elderly who turned out in large numbers.

Kisamwe said, “We are very grateful to the Nigerian Navy for bringing this programme to Abereke Community.

“Our people are happy because many of them now have access to medical care they ordinarily cannot afford.”

He appealed to the Navy to sustain the programme, noting that communities in the area would continue to benefit from such interventions.

Residents from nine communities, including Abereke, Abereke Seaside, Etugbo, Ogogo, Okeshilo, Ilutitun, and Oke Etugbo, attended the outreach.

The Nigerian Police, Amotekun, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps also supported the programme.