…as Association underscores investment in health, preparedness of first responders
In a practical demonstration of service to humanity, the Katamaran Deck of the National Association of Seadogs, popularly known as the Pyrates Confraternity, marked the 2026 World Health Day with a life-saving outreach for officers of the Nigeria Police Force at the Obalende Police Command, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The event, which combined a health talk with hands-on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training, which took place at the premises of the Obalende Police Command was designed not just to inform, but to equip police officers with critical emergency response skills that could mean the difference between life and death in the line of duty.
From discussions on stress management and cardiovascular health to practical demonstrations of CPR techniques, handled by seasoned medical practitioners, Dr. Ayodeji Adekunle Aina and Dr Sulaiman Wasiu Ilori of All Embracing Hospital, Erinlu, Ijebu-Ode, the sessions addressed the realities of policing as a high-risk profession.
Officers actively participated, learning how to respond swiftly and effectively in medical emergencies before professional help arrives.
Speaking during the programme, the Cap’n of Katamaran Deck, Comrade Jamal Apena, underscored the importance of investing in the health and preparedness of first responders.
“As an organisation committed to service to humanity, we recognise that health is a critical pillar of community development and public safety. Law enforcement officers are often the first responders in emergency situations, and equipping them with essential life-saving skills such as CPR is not just necessary, it is imperative.
“Today’s programme is our modest contribution to strengthening their capacity to save lives and respond effectively in critical moments.”
He added that the initiative reflects the Association’s broader commitment to public health and community impact.
Apena stated, “Beyond this intervention, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), Katamaran Deck, remains steadfast in its dedication to promoting public health awareness, preventive care, and community-based initiatives that positively impact society.
“We believe that a healthy police force translates to a safer and more resilient community.”
For the Project Officer of Katamaran Deck, Dr Adeyemi Olusola Smith, “World Health Day is more than a symbolic date, it is a call to meaningful action.
“World Health Day serves as a global reminder that health is not merely the absence of illness, but a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.
“As an organisation, we see this day as an opportunity to engage directly with critical stakeholders like the police, whose roles demand both physical resilience and mental alertness. The programme reflects our commitment to translating awareness into action. By combining health education with practical CPR training, we are not only marking World Health Day, but also making a tangible contribution to saving lives and strengthening community health systems.”
Echoing this sentiment, the Secretary of the organisation, Mr ‘Yomi Obisanya emphasised the broader relevance of the global health campaign.
“The significance of World Health Day lies in its ability to draw attention to pressing health issues affecting communities worldwide. It is a call to action for individuals, organisations, and governments to prioritise health and well-being in all spheres of life. For us at the National Association of Seadogs, this commemoration is a reaffirmation of our responsibility to society. Through initiatives like this, we continue to advocate for preventive healthcare, awareness creation, and capacity building, especially among institutions that serve the public,” he said.
On his part, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Obalende Police Command, CSP Akinwunmi Akingbehin, expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as both timely and impactful.
“On behalf of the officers and men of the Obalende Police Command, I sincerely commend the National Association of Seadogs for organising this timely and impactful health programme. The knowledge and skills acquired today will undoubtedly enhance our ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies in the line of duty,” he said.
The DPO further extended appreciation on behalf of the leadership of the Force.
“I also wish to express our deep appreciation to the Association on behalf of the Commissioner of Police and the Area Commander for this thoughtful initiative. This collaboration underscores the importance of partnership between the police and responsible civic organisations in advancing the welfare, capacity, and operational readiness of our personnel in service to the public,” he said.
By the close of the programme, it was clear that the impact went beyond the day’s activities. Officers left not only better informed, but better prepared empowered with knowledge and practical skills that could save lives within and beyond their professional duties.
As the world continues to emphasise the importance of health for all, initiatives like this serve as a reminder that real change often begins at the community level, one training, one life, at a time.
