Nigerian Army Boosts Healthcare in Kogi Community with New Model Facility, Infrastructure Upgrades
By Matthew Eloyi
The Nigerian Army has donated a newly built and fully equipped model Primary Health Care (PHC) facility to the Oziokutu-Ogaminana community in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State, along with several infrastructure upgrades.
The project, part of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiative, was executed by Maj.-Gen. Usman Tahiru Otaru, an illustrious son of the community. In addition to the PHC facility, the army renovated existing buildings, installed a perimeter fence, provided a borehole for improved sanitation, and installed solar-powered lights for security.
Speaking at the launch of the projects on Wednesday, the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, represented by Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, praised the initiative, describing it as part of the army’s efforts to engage with the civilian population and earn their support as it fulfills its constitutional duties.
“It is gratifying to note that the Nigerian Army has undertaken numerous quick impact projects to improve the well-being of communities across the six geopolitical zones of the country,” Lagbaja said. He emphasized that these interventions underscore the army’s commitment to both national security and community development.
The Project Executor, Maj.-Gen. Otaru, explained that the new PHC facility, equipped with three wards, consulting rooms, an ultrasound machine, and a laboratory, was designed to meet the community’s healthcare needs.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, represented by Retired Commodore Jerry Omodara, commended the army for its contribution to improving healthcare in the state and reiterated his administration’s commitment to boosting healthcare delivery, noting the recent renovation of 70 PHCs, with plans to upgrade 100 more by 2025.
The event, attended by dignitaries including the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, HRM Ahmed Tijani-Anaje, featured the presentation of gifts and souvenirs to the COAS, Gov. Ododo, and other leaders.