October 05, (THEWILL) — In a remarkable demonstration of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with a human touch, Seadove General Surveillance Company Limited has extended free medical treatment to over 900 residents of Onna Local Government Area and its environs in Akwa Ibom State.
The week-long community health outreach, held at Abat Primary Health Centre, was organised in partnership with the Voice of Community and Environmental Rights Initiative (VCERI) as part of efforts to give back to host communities.
The programme provided a full spectrum of medical services, including health education, laboratory screening, consultations, eye care, drug prescriptions, and minor surgeries, all at no cost to beneficiaries.
Speaking after his consultation, a 60-year-old farmer, Mr Kufreabasi, expressed relief and gratitude, describing the initiative as a “lifesaver.”
“I have battled high blood pressure for five years without proper treatment because I couldn’t afford hospital bills. This program is a big relief for me and many others”, Kufreabasi said.
Another beneficiary, Mrs Mary Udom, said the health talk session opened her eyes to disease prevention and lifestyle adjustments.
“I’ve learned how to eat better, keep clean surroundings, and avoid self-medication. This is more than just treatment, it’s empowerment”, she noted.
Speaking with journalists, Mr Godwin Ekpo, the Executive Director, Business Development and Strategy at Seadove, said the initiative reflects the company’s strong commitment to community welfare.
“We owe it to our host communities to deliver impact-driven CSR. Our target is to reach at least 900 people, including 40 minor surgeries”, he stated.
Ekpo, who described the turnout for the event as overwhelming, said the program covers five local government areas of Onna, Eket, Eastern Obolo, Ibeno, and Mkpat-Enin, encompassing about 38 communities.
“The crowd today is proof that the need for quality healthcare at the grassroots is massive. We’re happy to be part of the solution”, he added.
The Vice Chairman of Onna LGA, Mrs Mfon Jeremiah, representing the Chairman, Hon. Kufre Umoren, commended the company for aligning its initiative with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, particularly the health component.
“This is a worthy partnership that complements government efforts. We urge other corporate bodies to emulate Seadove’s example”, she called.
The village head of Ikot Ntuen, Ette Idung Ubong Ekanem, also lauded the outreach, describing it as a practical show of love and social responsibility.
“Seadove has shown that development is not just about roads and buildings; it is about touching lives”, he said.
The royal father expressed the hope that the outreach would continue across other communities, as many beneficiaries are hopeful that similar interventions will be sustained to bridge the healthcare gap in rural areas of Akwa Ibom State.
