Commodore Martins Fakrogha, the commander of the Nigerian Navy Shipyard (NNS), Jubilee in Akwa Ibom, says the navy is winning the fight against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering in the state.

Mr Fakrogha said this at the opening of a free medical outreach programme on Tuesday in Ikot Abasi.

He said the navy was using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in the campaign against crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering.

The commander said the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, had directed personnel to do everything possible to tackle oil theft, illegal bunkering and vandalism.

“We are doing everything possible to win the hearts of the civil populace. We need them to be in synergy with us. We can partner through intelligence sharing.

“It is our collective duty to tackle crime so that we can all have a safe and secure environment.

“This free medical outreach is our own way of building confidence and aligning with the community around us,” he said.

Mr Fakrogha said the outreach was also part of the navy’s corporate social responsibility to residents of the area.

The commander said residents of the community would be tested for malaria, HIV, blood sugar and vision.

“They will also enjoy free consultancy services. This is our second free medical outreach for the year,” he said.

Also speaking, Eteidung Nathaniel, the village head of Ikot Essien, Ikpa Ibekwe Clan, commended the navy for its series of kind gestures to the community.

Mr Nathaniel urged the navy to seek ways to provide potable water for the community, saying, “We are in need of safe water.”

One of the beneficiaries, Unah Udoh, thanked the navy for the outreach, describing it as well-intended.

(NAN)