The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division in Sokoto extended free medical services to over 5,000 residents of Gidan Gabas, a rural community in Dange/Shuni Local Government Area of Sokoto State to commemorate 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day
The outreach, held on Monday, aimed to bring much-needed healthcare to underserved populations.
During the flag-off ceremony, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Hadarin Daji, and Commander of Sector 2 of the operation, Major General Ibikunke Ajose, emphasized the Army’s commitment to supporting communities through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Represented by Brigadier General Ogbonnaya Igwe, Commander of the 8 Division, 78 Brigade Supply and Transport, Major General Ajose underscored that the gesture aligned with the Army’s tradition of community service.
“The medical team has come prepared with sufficient drugs and resources to ensure that everyone who participates in this exercise receives adequate care. We chose rural areas like Gidan Gabas to ensure the services reach those who need them the most,” he remarked.
Commandant of the 8 Division Medical Hospital and Services, Brigadier General Austin Okafor, detailed the array of services provided, which included malaria testing and treatment, hypertension management, eye examinations with eyeglasses, dental care, diabetes screening, and paediatric care.
He assured residents that cases requiring specialized attention would be referred to the Army Hospital at Giginya Barracks in Sokoto.
A community leader, Abubakar Maradun, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, praising the Army for its compassion and urging similar initiatives in other parts of Sokoto State.
He also encouraged residents to maintain order during the exercise for the smooth delivery of services.
Maradun further appealed to the community to pray for the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Nigerian Army, asking for divine strength in their service to the nation.
This medical outreach demonstrated the Army’s dedication to fostering goodwill and enhancing the welfare of the communities they serve, reaffirming its role as a force for both security and societal development.
