Port Harcourt – About 300 people in Elekahia community in Obio/Akpor, Rivers, will receive free correctional eyeglasses and other healthcare service provided by the Nigeria Air Force (NAF), an official announced.
Commodore Ali Idris, the Commander of 115 Special Operations Group, Nigerian Air Force Base Port Harcourt, disclosed this on Wednesday during a medical outreach organised to celebrate the 60th anniversary of NAF.
He said that 300 corrective glasses would be issued at no cost to those diagnosed with visual impairment during the one-day medical event.
“The medical outreach is part of the array of activities planned to commemorate the 60th anniversary of NAF, symbolising our unwavering dedication to the people we serve.
“The choice of Elekahia community for this year’s medical outreach is borne out of our consideration to addressing the pressing health needs of our host communities in the state.
“Our team of doctors and nurses is already on ground to prevent, detect, counsel and treat those individuals with identified ailments,” he stated.
Idris emphasised that residents would have the chance to undergo eyesight checks, blood pressure test, blood sugar level tests, deworming, and receive free consultations with medical practitioners.
“We have 300 glasses earmarked for individuals diagnosed with eye conditions, while those with complicated ailments will be referred to the NAF Reference Hospital.
“We encourage the people of Elekahia community to avail themselves of this uncommon opportunity to get themselves treated of their health challenges,” he urged the residents.
Group Captain Chidi Ezeani, the Commander of NAF Reference Hospital in Port Harcourt, said that drugs would be provided to patients diagnosed with malaria, typhoid fever, hypertension, and among conditions.
He added that residents identified with urinary tract infections would also receive free medication and consultations.
“Also, we are offering a wide range of free dental services to our deserving host community for standing by us.
“I also want to emphasise that military medical facilities are accessible not only for personnel but to all members of the civilian population,” he clarified.
Chief Promise Wali, one of the beneficiaries who received screening and treatment for an ailment, praised the air force for initiating the programme.
Another beneficiary, Mrs Rosemary Ihechu, a small-scale trader, expressed her joy at the medical outreach, and called for its continuation. (NAN)
