By Abel Johngold, MNIR
In a remarkable display of community service, the Vito Corsica Deck (Aniocha/Oshimili and Ika Federal Constituency Chapter) of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), popularly known as the Pyrates Confraternity, marked World Health Day with an impactful initiative aimed at promoting a cleaner environment and saving lives through blood donation in Asaba.
Led by their Chapter Cap’n, Comrade Michael Chukwuma Nwaidei, the Seadogs embarked on a thorough cleaning of roads across Asaba, clearing drains and ensuring a healthier environment for residents. Following the environmental exercise, they commenced voluntary blood donation screenings, encouraging their members and the public to donate blood for neonates and indigent pregnant women in desperate need of lifesaving transfusions.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Cap’n Nwaidei emphasized that this year’s World Health Day arrives at a crucial time in Nigeria’s battle against preventable maternal and child deaths.
“The solutions are known; what we lack is collective will and decisive action,” he stated. “The National Association of Seadogs reaffirms its commitment to advocating for policies that save lives. Every mother deserves a safe pregnancy, and every child deserves a healthy future.”
Echoing these sentiments, Comrade Dr. Davidson Akilaya, the 2nd Mate of Vito Corsica Deck, stressed that Nigeria’s high maternal and neonatal mortality rates necessitate urgent action. He highlighted that blood donation is a critical intervention that can significantly reduce the number of infant deaths occurring within the first month of life.
“We have observed that many newborns die within the first month due to a lack of fresh blood. Through this initiative, we are bridging the gap, ensuring that neonates and indigent mothers have access to the blood they need,” Akilaya noted.
The blood donation drive, conducted in collaboration with medical personnel from the Federal Medical Center Asaba, aimed to collect at least 20 pints of blood. However, according to the leader of the NAS medical team, Dr. Joshua Ejebe, a Radiologist resident at Asaba Specialist Hospital, the enthusiastic turnout suggested that the target would likely be exceeded.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with the National Association of Seadogs’ dedication to humanistic ideals,” Dr. Ejebe remarked. “We are proud to be part of a movement that prioritizes health and well-being, ensuring that those in critical need receive essential support.”
Beyond the blood donation drive, the Pyrates Confraternity also seized the opportunity to sensitize Asaba residents on the importance of environmental cleanliness and healthy living.
“With the rainy season upon us, it is crucial to keep our drains clean to prevent flooding and the spread of diseases,” Akilaya added. “Clean surroundings contribute to overall community health, reinforcing the message that good health begins with a clean environment.”
As World Health Day 2025 is commemorated globally under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” the efforts of the National Association of Seadogs in Asaba serve as a shining example of grassroots action that drives real change. Their commitment to saving lives and fostering a healthier society is a powerful reminder that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to building a brighter and healthier future for all.