NAS sensitises drivers in Eket to STDs, health awareness

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, Atlantic Shores Deck, Eket Chapter, has sensitised drivers at Atabong Soft-Park in Eket, Akwa Ibom, about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).

The President of the Association, Mr Idongest Ifon, said the gesture was in commemoration of World Health Day 2025, which was marked on Monday, April 7, and observed in Eket on Thursday.

Ifon explained that the association’s goal was to raise awareness about the risks of STDs, conduct blood pressure checks, and assess the overall health of drivers at the park.

The NAS president emphasised the importance of the event in educating drivers on the impact of STDs, how they could affect health, and the importance of knowing one’s body status.

He also highlighted the connection between STDs and child mortality rates during childbirth.

Dr Ukeme Etok, the resource person for the event, discussed the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of STDs.

He particularly stressed the dangers of multiple sexual partners and the importance of condom use to prevent STDs.

Etok also addressed the effects of STDs on maternal and newborn health, aligning with the World Health Day 2025 agenda.

Mr Iniakpan Thompson, Chairman of the Atabong Soft-Park, expressed gratitude to NAS for the health awareness initiative, praying for blessings on the association for their efforts in helping drivers live healthier and longer lives.

Highlights of the event was the distribution of condoms to help prevent the spread of STDs, especially during childbirth.