The Nigerian Army has initiated a compassionate initiative by providing free medical and educational services to vulnerable citizens in communities within the Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The medical outreach commenced on Monday at the College of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Okene, with Brig. -Gen. Harunah Dasuki, the Commander of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, officiating the event. In addition to medical assistance, the Army distributed essential educational materials, including notebooks, pens, pencils, rulers, sharpeners, erasers, and other stationeries, to students at the college.
Brig. -Gen. Dasuki explained that these outreach programs were integral components of the ongoing “Exercise (EX) Still Waters III,” designed to support the less privileged members of society. Launched by the Nigerian Army on October 30, the exercise aims to ensure the security of the community during the Yuletide period.
Highlighting the significance of the medical and educational outreaches, Brig. -Gen. Dasuki emphasized that these initiatives were part of the Nigerian Army’s Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) strategy, aimed at fostering positive relationships with host communities.
Commending the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. -Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for providing the necessary resources and logistics, the Commander assured continued efforts to create a secure environment for residents and to promote thriving economic activities.
In response, Alh. Abdulrazaq Muhammad, the Chairman of Okene Local Government Area (represented by Mr. Yusuf Suleiman), expressed gratitude for the Army’s selection of Okene for this outreach. He acknowledged the positive impact on community health and student academics, noting that the gesture would significantly enhance the well-being of the people.
Beneficiaries, including Mrs. Jemilat Nuhu, Sabdat Nasiru, and Sefiat Salihu, expressed appreciation for the Army’s assistance in addressing health issues and providing free medications. Services offered during the medical outreach included blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings, malaria and typhoid tests, general consultations, and the administration of oral polio vaccines for children.
At the Margaret Garba Ohiani Orphanage Home in Zango, Lokoja, Brig. -Gen. Dasuki extended the Army’s generosity by donating food items and cash to support the welfare of less privileged children. Mrs. Regina Ejembi, who received the donations on behalf of the orphanage home, conveyed heartfelt appreciation and prayers for the Chief of Army Staff and the Nigerian Army.
The donated items included rice, detergents, sugar, noodles, spaghetti, maggi, among others, accompanied by a cash donation. The Army’s commitment to community well-being and philanthropy was lauded by both community leaders and beneficiaries alike.
