Rivers community appeal for sustained fight against oil theft

The people of Asukama community in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers, have appealed to the Nigerian Navy to sustained its fight against oil theft in the state.

Chairman of the community council of Chiefs, Walter Nkot, made the appeal on Monday during a medical rhapsody by the Naval Outpost in Ikuru as part of activities marking the 69th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.

Nkot while commending the the Navy’s fight against oil theft, pledged the community’s continued support particularly against Maritime related crimes.

He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for the medical outreach, escribing it as a “historic and commendable gesture’’.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Commanding Officer Naval Outpost Ikuru, Commander Adams Kajola, said the essence of the medical outreach was to provide free medical services and improve the wellbeing of the community.

Kajola represented by the Executive Officer, Lt. Commander Mohammed Muye, emphasised the critical role of good health in community development.

He reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the wellbeing of its host communities, noting that the initiative aligned with the vision, mission, and strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

The commander described the medical rhapsody as a demonstration of Navy’s role as both a defender of the country and builder of community wellbeing.

“The Navy remains resolute in conducting kinetic operations to safeguard national security. Initiatives such as this reflect the Navy’s investment in non kinetic operations that directly impact lives,’’ he said.

He added that the outreach was also meant to foster stronger relationships between the Navy and the immediate communities and to also give back to society.

“This is more so, particularly to the less privileged who may not have access to medicare regularly.

“The free medical rhapsody programme includes blood pressure (BP) check, blood sugar screening, malaria and typhoid test, distribution of medications, health talk, as well as free medical consultations, among others,” he said.