The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as Pyrates Confraternity, on Sunday, offered free medical care to 500 residents in Egini Community, Udu Local Government Area of Delta.
Addressing newsmen during the outreach, Dr Kenechukwu Eneli, a United States of America-based medical practitioner, said that the initiative was part of the association’s quarterly programme.
Eneli, who is the “first mate” and Chief Administrative Officer of the confraternity, said that the gesture was aimed at addressing the medical needs of the underserved communities, as well as to advocate for improved healthcare services.
He said the association was committed to impacting lives at “every stop”.
“Today, we are in Egini to bring healthcare directly to the people.
” This is because our organisation exist to assist those in need and amplify voices that may otherwise go unheard.
“The outreach offers free diagnosis, treatment and referrals, targeting conditions like hypertension, diabetes and malaria, among others,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr Odoemena Chiazor, a member of the medical team said that serious health complications would be referred to the Central Hospital, Warri.
“This mission is focused on consultation, treatment, and necessary referrals.
“We already have an arrangement with Central Hospital, Warri, to handle follow-ups for referred patients,” he said.
Chiazor appealed to the government at all levels to strengthen primary healthcare facilities, noting that health management starts at the grassroot.
On his part, the confraternity’s “second mate”, Chief Bart Akelemor, said that the medical programme started in 2010 to provide healthcare support to rural communities.
Akelemor said that the association found out that due to high hospital expenses, many people were patronising local chemists and native healers for treatment.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Udu Local Government Area, Mr Vincent Oyibode, commended the association for the medical intervention.
“Seadogs have not only provided free healthcare to Egini, but also extended it to the larger Udu community.
“This gesture is commendable as it supports our local health facilities, which often struggle with resources,” he said.
The President-General of Egini community, Mr Dolor Patrick, on behalf of the community, expressed gratitude to the association
Also, Mrs Joy Onogharefe, one of the beneficiaries and who was treated for typhoid and malaria thanked the organisers for the initiative. (NAN)