In furtherance of its commitment to civil-military relations, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has provided free health care service to over 200 residents of Sogunle community of Lagos State.
Commanding Officer, Pharmacy Department, NAF Base, Ikeja, Wing Commander David Babalola, told newsmen, on Thursday, that the programme was part of the activities to mark the 53rd anniversary of NAF’s establishment in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the air arm of the Nigerian Armed Forces, was formally established on 18 April, 1964 with the passage of the Air Force Act 1964 by the then National Assembly.
Babalola said that, “The medical outreach is NAF’s way to show appreciation as well as identify with our host communities, neighbours and the general public.
“The medical team from 561 NAF’s Hospital is here to provide medical services to Sogunle community as part of our NAF-Day Celebration.
“The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadiq Abubakar, has directed that we provide free medical services to our host communities, which is in furtherance of the commitment of the CAS to enhancing civil-military cooperation.
“This outreach is also simultaneously holding in six NAF bases across the country as a way to show our commitment to civil-military cooperation,’’ Babalola said.
The medical outreach entailed free HIV screening and awareness campaign, as well as checking of blood and sugar levels of residents of its host communities.
Others are tests for malaria and hepatitis; oral and dental treatment, eye test, and the provision of free drugs and glasses to those who needed them.
In his remarks, the community leader of Sogunle, High Chief Babalola Ajishefiri, commended the NAF for the programme.
According to him, the exercise will further strengthen the cordial relationship between the force and its host communities.
“NAF has been so nice to this community and we have no cause to regret having them as our neighbours.
“The community will continue to pray for positive things to continue to happen to the NAF and its personnel following this wonderful gesture,’’ he said.
A beneficiary of the outreach, Mr. Saheed Yahaya, appreciated the NAF medical team for the free drugs, and implored the CAS to make it a regular exercise.
“I am most grateful and touched by this free medical outreach,’’ Yahaya said.
Another beneficiary, Mrs. Sadiat Olowokere, also appreciated NAF for the kind gesture.