The Nigerian Navy has promised to collaborate with its host communities in Cross River to ensure improved healthcare and sanitation.

Commodore Rotimi Oderemi, the commander, Nigerian Navy Ship Victory (NNS Victory), said this at a free medical outreach in Esuk Mba, Akpabuyo Local Government Area on Monday.

The community’s residents benefitted from the treatment of malaria, dental challenges, eye tests, and sugar level screening during outreach.

Other services at the exercise included the donation of eyeglasses, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and insecticide-treated nets.

Mr Oderemi said the collaboration had become expedient following the importance that the navy placed on health and sanitation.

The commander said many rural community dwellers needed healthcare support because of poverty and the lack of good medical facilities in their communities.

“We understand the health challenges of the people in our host communities, especially the rural areas; this is the reason we should support them,” he said.

Mr Oderemi urged residents of navy host communities to always take advantage of give-back projects to enhance their wellbeing.

Capt. Simon Ocholi, the commander, Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital, Calabar, said ailments that could not be treated during the exercise would be referred to the naval hospital.

The paramount ruler of Akpabuyo, Etintin Francis Efa, commended the navy for the free medical outreach, describing it as a good omen.

“There is no health facility within the community; it is always difficult when urgent medical attention is needed,” he said.

He urged the navy to play more active roles in tackling the challenges of insecurity in the area.

Bassey Effiong Bassey, the member representing Akpabuyo in the state House of Assembly, urged the navy to extend their security support to the community.

“The state government is trying its best to arrest the situation; we are appealing for more effort from the navy to stop this menace,” he said.

(NAN)