The Central Naval Command (CNC) of the Nigerian Navy has urged Niger Delta communities to seize the window of ongoing dialogue offered by the Federal Government to restore peace to the region.

Rear Admiral Muhammed Garuba, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), CNC, made the call on Saturday at the flag-off of a free medical outreach programme at Edepie community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

He noted that dialogue is a better approach at resolving conflicts as it ensures that all parties to the conflict accommodate the interests of each other.

Garuba, who appreciated the cooperation of members of its host communities, said that the gesture was to promote mutual relations with the civil populace. He urged the people to support the navy’s operations against maritime crime.

He said that five communities in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa capital, have so far benefitted from the exercise, which is part of the Chief of Naval Staff’s strategic directive to give back to the society.

Garuba assured members of Edepie community that the medical mission as adequately equipped to cater for the medical needs of children and adults who turned up at the town hall.

More than 1,000 residents of Edepie community turned up for the free medical outreach and were taking turns to receive medical care.

Health officials from the Bayelsa Ministry of Health were on hand to administer immunisation vaccine to children below five years.

The traditional ruler of Edepie community in his remarks applauded the navy for the friendly gesture to the community at a time of economic crisis that has depleted the disposable income of residents.

He said that members of the community are elated by the concern of the navy for the welfare of the communities and pledged to sustain the mutual relationship.

•State House Photo shows Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas.

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