To celebrate the 160th anniversary of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, on Monday, launched a medical outreach campaign in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), represented by the Chief of Transformation and Innovations, Maj. Gen. Zakari Abubakar, declared the program open and stated its goal was to solidify further the positive connection between the Nigerian Army and the populace.
Lagbaja stated,
“The reason for this programme is to further cement the cordial relationship that exists between the Nigerian Army and the good people of this state. It is also to mark the 160 years of the Nigerian Army. The medical programme is free of charge, irrespective of your status, religion or tribe. Either you are young, middle-aged or aged, either you are rich or poor, you are entitled to this free medical programme.”
Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, said in a statement that “the event witnessed a large number of residents who took advantage of the free medical outreach to access tests and treatment for diverse ailments, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, dental, heart, eye, and other health challenges, as well as unpaid medical checkups. The Nigerian Army also distributed free drugs, eyeglasses, crutches and wheelchairs to the physically challenged. The team conducted health talks and counseling sessions to sensitize the community.
Maj. Gen. Victor Onumajuru, the head of the Central Organising Committee, said:
“The society owns the Army. They should support us. Give us more encouragement. The more they support us, the more we give back to society. So, we are asking for more support from them.”
cc: Punch Ng
