The OML 83 and 85 NNPC/FIRST E&P Joint Venture has concluded a medical outreach that targeted eight communities in Bayelsa State, including Koluama 1, Koluama 2, Ezetu 1, Ezetu 2, Foropa, Fish Town, Ekeni, and Sangana.

According to a statement made available to The PUNCH on Tuesday, the JV carried out the activity as part of its corporate social responsibility programmes aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of people within its host communities.

The statement read, “The outreach, which took place recently, was carried out by 62 medical doctors and other healthcare professionals.

“The programme provided free preventive, referral and curative medical services to over 2,200 people across the targeted communities. Beneficiaries received free medication for malaria, diabetes, high blood pressure and various forms of optical ailments.

“The outreach resulted in the issuance of free de-worming medication, 692 pairs of prescription eyeglasses, and 1,200 mosquito nets to residents of the eight communities.

Commenting on the initiative, the Group General Manager of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, a subsidiary of NNPC Limited, Bala Wunti, said, “Our vision for social interventions is to continue operating ethically and sustainably while dealing with any environmental and social impacts caused by our activities.

“We believe that this outreach programme will go a long way in addressing health challenges in the community. On behalf of the management of NNPC Limited, I would like to extend our appreciation to the Bayelsa State Government, and our partner FIRST E&P for driving this programme.”

The statement also quoted General Manager, Corporate Services at FIRST E&P, Mr Emmanuel Etomi, as saying, “As an organisation, we believe that understanding and addressing the needs of communities where we operate is an important part of maintaining a successful and sustainable business.

“Across Africa, health improvement continues to be a major pillar for driving socio-economic growth. We carried out this programme in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3.”

The Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, Koluama II, and a beneficiary of the outreach, Chief Godfrey Goli, lauded the JV for the programme which he said has benefited the lives of many in the communities.