The Nigerian Army has commissioned a fully equipped Primary Health Care Centre in Umuchieze, Abia State, as part of its non-kinetic efforts to promote peace and enhance public welfare.
This was contained in a press statement signed by Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan, a copy of which was obtained by Africa Health Report (AHR) on Tuesday.
The project, executed under the Chief of Army Staff’s Special Intervention Projects, was named in honour of His Royal Majesty (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale , Chieze II of Umuchieze.
“This project underscores our belief that security is not only about military presence but also about improving the welfare of citizens, especially in rural communities,” said Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, represented at the ceremony by Major General KO Aligbe, Commander of TRADOC.
The state-of-the-art facility comprises a consultation unit, maternity and laboratory sections, nurses’ station, medical store, modern sanitation facilities, a solar-powered borehole, perimeter fencing, and solar lighting for continuous operation and security.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, Abia State Commissioner for Health who represented Governor Alex Otti, praised the Army’s intervention, describing the centre as “a beacon of hope… safer childbirth for our mothers, timely treatment for our children, and a stronger, healthier community.”
Also present at the commissioning was the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army), Major General GU Chibuisi, who noted that the initiative had been warmly welcomed by local leaders and residents for its potential to reduce maternal and infant mortality.
HRM (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale (JP), Chieze III of Umuchieze, expressed gratitude, affirming that the project will “further solidify the existing cordial relationship between his people and the Nigerian Army.”
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, traditional leaders, and members of the community.
