By Tola Gbadamosi
The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, Ondo State, has provided free medical services to over 2,000 residents of Gbolowo community in the Ondo South Senatorial District.
The initiative, targeting one of its host communities, took place at the Civic Centre in Bolowoghu, Ese-Odo Local Government area of Ondo State.
Services offered included routine check-ups, provision of medication, health education, distribution of insecticide-treated nets, free medicated glasses, and administration of vaccines to children.
The Hope Metro gathered that the Nigerian Navy organised the free medical outreach on Saturday in collaboration with Galaxy Security Agency.
The programme aimed to address prevalent health challenges in the community and promote community development initiatives.
The Commanding Officer of FOB Igbokoda, Captain Aliyu Usman, stated that the exercise was part of the Nigerian Navy’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to its host communities.
It aimed to provide much-needed support to the people and enhance collaboration in areas such as information and intelligence sharing to combat criminal activities in the waterways.
He noted that the initiative, a periodic gesture, has helped the Nigerian Navy maintain maritime security, ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s critical national assets, particularly in the oil sector.
“This laudable initiative is on the instructions of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, as part of efforts to contribute to the development of riverine communities,” Captain Usman remarked.
“He has directed us to provide these free medical services to improve the lives of the people and foster the understanding that the Navy is a friend to the community.
“This effort, conducted in conjunction with Galaxy Security Services Limited, aims to strengthen our relationship with the community,” he added.
Captain Usman revealed plans to extend the exercise to other communities, enhancing information sharing and collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and its hosts for improved operational efficiency.
“We assure the community that the Navy and its partners will not stop here but will continue to support other riverine communities.
“This outreach is a regular exercise and will involve other areas of development for the riverine communities in the future. We therefore seek the cooperation of the community to support our efforts in securing the maritime environment effectively, ” he emphasised.
In his remarks, the CEO of Galaxy Security, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube, represented by the General Manager, commended the Navy’s commitment to riverine communities. He stated that the initiative aligns with Galaxy Security’s mission to support the less privileged in society.
He further promised continued support to riverine communities in healthcare, education, and general services.
One of the beneficiaries, Chief Beroni Bayijo, praised the Nigerian Navy for the free medical services and expressed satisfaction with the tests conducted and the medication provided.
Another beneficiary, Mrs Bafore Temi, also commended the Navy for selecting their community for the outreach. She noted that her people were delighted by the gesture from FOB Igbokoda and pledged to hold the Navy in high regard.