The Nigerian Navy (NNS) Delta has provided free medical services to the residents of Burutu Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta state.
The Commander of the NNS Delta, Commodore Abba Muhsin who led the naval health team to the community on Friday said that the essence of the exercise was to extend the goodwill of the Nigerian Navy to the Burutu residents.
“This exercise is a humanitarian programme to engage with the Nigeria citizens in line with the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) strategic directives.
“We have come to Burutu to participate in medical rhapsody. The essence is to key into the health conditions of the residents.
“We are providing medications and consultancy to various ailments,” he said.
Muhsin declared that globally, soldiers, beyond fighting, also participate in humanitarian services and peace keeping.
According to the naval boss, the humanitarian aspect goes a long way in terms of improving the relationship between the military personnel and the communities.
“We want communities to know that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is not their enemies. We are here to serve them,” he said.
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Also speaking, Dr Julius Takeme, Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area commended the Nigerian Navy for the laudable gesture.
He said, “I have never seen this type of gesture embarked upon by the Navy in my local government. Ordinarily,
people think the military only protect the territorial integrity of the nation.
“Today, the Navy has identified with the people of Burutu Community. I thank them. We are partners and more of this will endear them to the society,” he said
On his part, the Chairman of Burutu Community, Mr Patrick Binebai expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy and called for a yearly conduct of the exercise in the community.
Some of the free medical services included: sugar check, blood pressure, eye check, health education, provision of recommended eye glasses, among others.
No fewer than 1,500 residents of the community benefited from the free medical outreach.
