In a significant community support initiative, the Nigerian Army has launched free medical and educational outreach programs targeting vulnerable citizens in Okene and Adavi Local Government Areas of Kogi State. Brigadier-General Harunah Dasuki, Commander of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, inaugurated the outreach at the College of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Okene, providing residents with free medical services and distributing educational materials, including notebooks, pens, and other stationery.

The outreach, part of the “Exercise (EX) Still Waters III” launched on October 30, is a civil-military cooperation effort aimed at fostering security and supporting local communities during the holiday season. Brig.-Gen. Dasuki noted that the program underscores the Army’s commitment to engaging with and supporting host communities. He praised Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja for equipping the command with essential resources and logistics for the initiative, which aligns with the Army’s goals to ensure a secure and conducive environment for economic growth in the region.

Beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude for the Army’s intervention. Mrs. Jemilat Nuhu received treatments for malaria and typhoid, while nursing mother Sefiat Salihu was grateful for treated mosquito nets that would help protect her baby from malaria. Health services provided included blood pressure monitoring, diabetes screenings, general consultations, malaria and typhoid treatment, and oral polio vaccinations for children.

In addition to healthcare and educational support, the outreach extended to the Margaret Garba Ohiani Orphanage Home in Zango, Adavi LGA, where the Army donated food items such as rice, noodles, and spaghetti, along with cash support. Mrs. Regina Ejembi, representing the orphanage, expressed heartfelt thanks for the Army’s assistance, noting its positive impact on the well-being of the children.

Representing Okene’s Local Government Chairman, Mr. Yusuf Suleiman commended the Army’s contributions, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between the military and local communities for sustainable development.