By Johnbosco Agbakwuru, Abuja

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), known as the Pyrates Confraternity, brought free medical services to nearly 200 residents of Karon-Majigi in Abuja during its latest quarterly humanitarian push.

Hosted at the local Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC), the event provided diagnostics, treatments, health education, counseling, and referrals.

NAS Capoon Dr. Joseph Oteri called the outreach a core part of the group’s routine. “This is a medical mission organized by NAS as part of our quarterly meeting. We do it every quarter and when we go to any town we select a community that we think should benefit,” he said.

He highlighted the facility’s strain from overpopulation, noting it as a vital relief effort.

Oteri detailed NAS’s data-driven strategy: Teams conduct “scoping missions” to identify prevalent ailments like malaria, then stockpile targeted drugs.

“We handle all ailments that are within the community we adopted… Before we go to a community we do what is called scoping mission where we go there and find out the ailments prevalent in that community,” he explained.

The group funds efforts internally for now but eyes external partnerships, while partnering with government PHCs for seamless referrals and follow-ups.

He praised Health Minister Muhammad Pate’s reforms. “The health sector is beginning to improve with Minister of Health, Pate. A lot of things have changed. A lot of PHCs are being revitalized now,” Oteri said, adding that stronger primary care could ease pressure on hospitals.

Medical Mate of Sahara Deck, Dr. Wisdom Ekanem emphasized the community’s plight. Basic tests revealed issues like malaria and hepatitis, with residents thrilled by the support.

“The community is very happy. From the scoping mission to this intervention stage, they have been thanking God that an organization like this has come to their aid,” he noted.

Ekanem urged government action on poor drainage and unplanned housing fueling health risks.

Karon-Majigi Hakimi ,Yunusa Abdullahi Bako hailed the impact. “What I see here today gladdens me. I am excited to see my people receiving free treatment,” he said, contrasting it with past superficial visits.

He pushed for PHC upgrades to a full hospital, more staff, and a doctor to match the area’s needs.