By Musa Ubandawaki in Sokoto

SOKOTO – Over 5,000 residents of Dambuwa Gidan Gabas in Dange/Shuni Local Government Area benefited from a free medical outreach organized by the 8 Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto on Monday.

The outreach, part of activities marking the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), provided free treatments including eye and dental care, hypertension and diabetes tests, medical consultations, laboratory tests, and the distribution of treated mosquito nets.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Ibukunle Ajose, represented by Brigadier General Ogbannaya Igwe, inaugurated the exercise and encouraged the Gidan Gabas community to utilize the free medical services.

“The 8 Division Nigerian Army remains committed to maintaining the strong relationship it shares with its host civilian communities. We will continue to conduct medical outreaches and other support services as part of our social responsibility,” he stated.

Commander of 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital, Brigadier General Austin Okafor, noted that the outreach aimed to serve 5,000 people.

“We are confident of achieving this target as patients are still trooping in. Specialists are on hand to address cases of malaria, diabetes, hypertension, eye care, dental issues, and more,” Okafor explained.

He emphasized that the vision of the Chief of Army Staff includes not only defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity but also addressing the health needs of the population.

Malam Abubakar Dambuwa, representing the Gidan Gabas community leader, praised the Nigerian Army for the initiative, expressing hope for its continuation.

“This kind gesture by the Nigerian Army has brought immense relief to our community. Many of these services are costly, and we are grateful for this support. We have enjoyed a long-standing cordial relationship with the Army, and we hope this will be sustained,” he said.

Malam Muhammad Dambuwa, a recipient of new eyeglasses, expressed gratitude to the Army and urged for regular medical outreaches, especially during challenging economic times.

“This outreach is timely. Many people cannot afford basic medical care now, and such initiatives bring hope to the community,” he said.

The outreach highlights the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting host communities while fulfilling its constitutional duties.