In celebration of the Nigerian Army Day (NADCEL) 2024, the Nigerian Army has launched several community development projects and provided free healthcare services in Plateau State. This marks the 161st anniversary of the Army’s establishment.
On Wednesday, July 3, 2024, the Nigerian Army inaugurated quick impact projects across Mangu, Riyom, Bassa, and Wase Local Government Areas (LGAs). The Army also conducted a free medical outreach at the University of Jos Main Campus Primary School in Angwan Rogo, Jos North, showcasing its commitment to Civil-Military Cooperation and community development.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), commissioned a project in Mangu LGA, which included the renovation of classroom blocks, installation of a solar-powered borehole, and construction of toilets in Mangun. The project was initiated by Major General Godwin Mutkut, an esteemed son of the community and General Officer Commanding 8 Division of the Nigerian Army.
General Lagbaja emphasized that these initiatives are a way for the Army Headquarters to give back to the communities of senior officers who have served with distinction.
He encouraged the Mangun community to take ownership of the new facilities and support the Army’s efforts to eliminate criminal elements in Plateau State.
The COAS reiterated that the Nigerian Army aims to foster a strong Civil-Military Cooperation, enhancing its operations and training through these community-focused projects. He highlighted the Army’s dedication to non-kinetic crisis management strategies, complementing their kinetic efforts nationwide.
Expressing his gratitude, General Lagbaja thanked President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Defence, and the Chief of Defence Staff for their unwavering support. He also appreciated Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Muftwang, for his backing of the Army’s peace-restoration efforts in the state.
Major General Godwin Mutkut, speaking on behalf of the Traditional Council and the Mangun Community, thanked the Army for the projects. He noted that the initiatives would significantly improve the learning environment and contribute to the fight against insecurity by engaging young minds academically.
In Riyom LGA, the COAS commissioned additional classroom blocks and a solar-powered borehole at Hoss Community Secondary School in Ta-hoss. He explained that the intervention aimed to aid a community affected by farmer-herder conflicts, providing a conducive learning environment and promoting healthy living with the new borehole’s 40,000-liter water storage capacity.
Simultaneously, the Nigerian Army conducted a free medical outreach at the University of Jos Main Campus Primary School in Angwan Rogo, Jos. Residents received free medical examinations, treatments for various ailments, check-ups, medications, eye glasses, mosquito nets, crutches, and wheelchairs. Health talks and counseling sessions were also held to address the dangers of substance and drug abuse.
This initiative underlines the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to build trust, enhance cooperation with civilians, and support national security and economic prosperity.
LV