To improve healthcare access in remote communities and strengthen civil-military relations, the Nigerian Navy has commissioned a new health facility in Odawu Joinkrama III, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The project, unveiled over the weekend, was spearheaded by Rear Admiral Livingston Clinton Izu, Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Ordnance Depot, and funded through the Chief of Naval Staff’s Special Intervention Quick Impact Project Scheme under Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
Before the intervention, the only available healthcare facility in the area was a 90-year-old, non-functional general hospital at Ususu Joinkrama I, built by early missionaries.
Representing the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), Special Adviser on Security Rear Admiral Kadiri Makoju (rtd) praised the Navy for its foresight and encouraged the local community to safeguard the new health centre for long-term use.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Chief of Naval Staff—represented by Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command—highlighted that the initiative aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Navy’s commitment to community support beyond its security role.
Rear Admiral Izu, a native of the community, expressed gratitude to the CNS for approving the project, stating that the facility was designed as a stop-gap to meet urgent health needs in the absence of a functional hospital.
He noted that the mini health centre includes a consulting room, male and female wards, a maternity ward, laboratory, pharmacy, nursing and immunisation stations, and a borehole system for water supply.
The Ibe of Engenni Kingdom, King Moore Maclean Okilomu, also lauded the Navy, saying the project reflects confidence in the community and a shared commitment to development.
