As part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2023 (NADCEL 2023), the Nigerian Army organized a one-day medical outreach in Mapo Hall, Oja Oba Community, Ibadan, Oyo state on Monday, July 3, 2023. The medical outreach aimed to provide healthcare services to the residents of the community.
During the flag-off ceremony at Mapo Hall, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, expressed gratitude to the people of Ibadan for their support to the Nigerian Army. He acknowledged their cooperation and support in carrying out the army’s constitutional duties. The choice of Oja Oba Community for the medical outreach was a way to give back to the people of Ibadan.
The COAS, represented by the Chief of Transformation and Innovations Army (COTI), Major General Zakari Abubakar, explained that the medical outreach was part of the activities to commemorate the 160th year of the Nigerian Army’s existence. He assured the community that the Nigerian Army will continue to build on the existing strong relationship and provide platforms to further strengthen their bond.
During the vote of thanks, Pastor Emmanuel Olawale, Chairman of Ibadan South East Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army for their kind gesture. He emphasized that the people of Oja Oba community were delighted to have the Nigerian Army’s medical team present to provide free medical services. He commended the Army for organizing the outreach and for their efforts in ensuring the security of lives and property in Ibadan and the surrounding areas.
The event witnessed a significant turnout of residents who took advantage of the free medical outreach. They received tests and treatments for various ailments, including high blood pressure, diabetes, dental issues, heart conditions, eye problems, and other health challenges. Free medical checkups were also conducted. In addition, the Nigerian Army distributed free drugs, eyeglasses, crutches, and wheelchairs to individuals with physical disabilities, providing much-needed support to those in need.
In addition to the medical services provided, health talks and counseling sessions were conducted to raise awareness among the community members. The aim was to educate them about the consequences of substance abuse and promote a healthier lifestyle.
The event attracted various dignitaries, including the Olubadan of Ibadan, His Royal Majesty Oba Olalekan Balogun, Major General Victor Onumajuru, Chief of Special Services and Programmes and Chairman of NADCEL 2023, Major General Takuti Usman, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, and Principal Staff Officers from the Army Headquarters, among others. Their presence demonstrated the importance and support given to the Nigerian Army Day Celebration and the outreach program.
The former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, participated in the Civil-Military Cooperation activities of the Nigerian Army by commissioning the renovated and furnished Alafia Oluwa Primary School in Mushin, Lagos State. This initiative aimed to improve the educational infrastructure in the area and provide a conducive learning environment for the students.
In addition, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya also donated a borehole to address the water problem in the community. The provision of clean and accessible water is essential for the well-being and health of the residents.
These efforts demonstrate the commitment of the Nigerian Army to engage with local communities and contribute to their development and welfare beyond their primary security responsibilities. By investing in education and addressing basic needs like water supply, the Nigerian Army aims to enhance the overall quality of life for the people in the area.