As part of activities to commomerste the 69th Anniversary and 2025 Navy Week Celebration, the Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH, NNS SOROH under the command of Commodore OA Akinbami, has launched a program tagged ” Free Medical Rhapsody” in Ayakoro community, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Speaking during flag-off ceremony, Commodore Akinbami said the event aimed to provide quality healthcare services to the residents and promote a healthier and more resilient nation.
He emphasized the importance of health in human existence and reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to expanding its medical services beyond its personnel to neighboring communities.
He noted the outreach program is part of the Navy’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.
The Commander urged the residents of Ayakoro to take advantage of the free medical services, emphasizing that their health matters and investing in it would translate to a prosperous and happy community.
He said: ” As part of the activities lined up to mark the celebration of the Nigerian Navy 69° Anniversary, we are gathered here to celebrate our proud history and also extend a helping hand to our fellow citizens who have accommodated the Nigerian Navy to ensure it achieves her constitutional roles.
” Health is fundamental to human existence. Therefore, as part of itsCooperate Social Responsibility, the Nigerian Navy deems it fit in ensuring thathquality healthcare reaches every comer of our nation, reaffirming the commitment and vision of the Chief of The Naval Staff Vice Admiral El Ogalla, in fostering a healthier and more resilient nation by expanding the reach of naval medical services beyond the Navy itself but also to neighboring communities. Hence,Ayakoro community was selected for this year’s NN 69 Anniversary Medical Outreach
” Ayakoro community holds a special place in our hearts, and it is fitting thatwe begin our commemoration here. Today, we bring not only medical expertisebut also compassion, care and solidarity.
” As we flag off this free Medical Rhapsody in commemoration of NigerianNavy at 69, let us carry forward the spirit of unity and compassion that defines ourNation. Together, let us continue to strive for a Nigeria where every citizen canthrive while remaining healthy and prosperous”.
He also expressed gratitude to the medical personnel and volunteers who made the event possible.
In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro community, HRH Righteous Inegbagha appreciated the Nigerian Navy for considering Ayakoro as a beneficiary community, saying that the medical outreach is a great relief to the people in view of the high cost of accessing medication.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Chairman Organizing Committee, Comander B.J Grandapa stated that the Free Medical Rhapsody is routine event aimed to enhanced cooperation between the Navy and host communities as this year’s event is slated to commomerste the 69th Anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Navy.
According to him, the free medical rhapsody will feature general consultations, opthalmic services and free medicated glasses as well as free mosquitoes treated nets and laboratory services.
Commenting on the medical rhapsody, beneficiaries of the program Chief Kenneth Emos and Mrs. Mercy Obien thanked the Nigerian Navy for bringing the free medical program to the community, saying that it is a great financial relief to them.