NADCEL: Army Takes Free Medical Outreach To Kaduna Community
The Nigerian Army, on Friday, provided free medical services to Katabu community in Maraban Jos area of Kaduna State, as part of activities marking the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
The medical outreach was to provide access to medical services for indigent residents unable to pay for proper medical care.
Those who turned up were diagnosed and offered treatment for Malaria, Dental and Eye ailments, and blood pressure, as well as deworming for children, among others.
The Syndicate reports that the Army also provided wheelchairs, crutches and cycles for disabled persons to make movement easier for them.
In his remarks, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen.Olufemi Oluyede, emphasised the imperative of good health in maintaining a viable population capable of contributing to nation building, and enjoined members of the community to avail themselves of the free medical consultations, diagnosis and treatment.
Oluyede reiterated the commitment of the Army to ensure the protection of the nation’s territorial integrity and in defeating all insurgents and bandits in the country.
The Army Chief, represented by the Army Chief of Administration Maj.Gen. Lawrence Oluwafunmilayo stated that the medical scheme was made flexible for easy access by beneficiaries, especially low income earners and less privileged members of the society.
In his welcome address, Acting Commander, Nigerian Army Medical Corps, Brig. General Samson Okoigi said the Nigerian Army in its 162 years of existence had taken seriously the security and health needs of citizens, both military and civilians.
He underscored the importance of sound health in ensuring a productive population for the growth and development of the society.
“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a very remarkable and special event in the Nigerian Army with the theme ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army’s Transformative Drive,’ is particularly special due to the prevailing circumstances under which the annual event would hold.
“This Medical Outreach is part of the programmes taking place simultaneously across the nation in all formations and units of the Nigerian Army.
“The Nigerian Army has a long history of providing good medical care to the Nigerian populace both in peace time and in conflict.
“Our medical personnel have been instrumental in the successful resolution of various military operations and have played crucial role in ensuring the wellbeing of troops and winning the hearts and minds of civilians in our operating environment.
“As we celebrate Nigerian Army Day 2025, we recognize the importance of teamwork, dedication and sacrifice in achieving goals. I would like to appreciate the Chief of Army Staff for funding and making this outreach possible,” he said.
The District head of Rigachukun, Alhaji Murtala Muhammad commended the army for extending the free health services to his people, and pledged the cooperation of the community to security agencies at all times.
One of the beneficiaries, Hauwa Adamu who received crutches, expressed joy over the gesture, saying the crutches are now her new legs.
Also, Hamisu Lawal who received a wheelchair, commended the Army for the assistance rendered to people with disabilities in the community.
