The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as Pyrates Confraternity, conducted medical outreach on Friday in the Idundu community and nearby areas within the Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, delivering vital healthcare services to residents.
This complimentary initiative is part of NAS’s quarterly program aimed at meeting the medical needs of underserved populations and advocating for better healthcare access.
During the outreach held at Obutong, NAS President, Dr. Joseph Otere, emphasized that the association recognizes the government’s limitations in addressing all citizen needs, which inspired the organization to undertake the free medical initiative.
“NAS is committed to supporting humanity and the less fortunate. During our quarterly meetings, we identify communities lacking sufficient assistance from the government or others. When we visit these areas, we provide necessary care through a range of professionals, including doctors, dentists, ophthalmologists, and pharmacists,” he explained.
“We maintain a database of our activities. For instance, our last outreach in Warri served around 500 patients, and we promptly refer those needing additional care to specialists to ensure ongoing support rather than just a one-time service.”
He added, “We originally planned this medical mission at a primary healthcare facility but discovered they lacked water. Consequently, we arranged for the installation of a new borehole, which will be inaugurated tomorrow with the state’s health commissioner.”
“We always keep the state government informed about our missions to enable them to follow up with any assistance needed, as we don’t just provide temporary solutions.”
Dr. Odoemena Chiazor, the medical team leader, provided insights into the outreach’s organization, noting that serious cases would be referred to a General Hospital in Calabar.
“Our organization comprises many professionals who volunteer their time and resources, with NAS covering minimal costs for external participants. All materials and supplies for the outreach were provided by NAS.”
“Following each mission, we analyze the data collected to identify prevalent health issues in the community. We then communicate our findings to the state government and make recommendations for further action. If additional follow-up is required, our secondary chapters in the community continue the support,” he stated, highlighting that 20 doctors participated in the outreach.
Expressing gratitude, the Clan Head of Ukpong Atai Clan in Akpabuyo LGA, His Royal Highness Etinyin Robert Archibong, commended NAS for their efforts, describing their gesture as remarkable.
“I am thrilled to have them here and sincerely thank NAS for this medical mission. I hope they consider returning to our village for future projects, as I stand ready to host them,” he remarked.
Residents of Idundu and nearby areas expressed their gratitude for the outreach, highlighting that it not only reduced their transportation expenses but also offered high-quality care right at their doorstep.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Seadogs offer free medical outreach to 500 residents in Delta community
