Nigerian Air Force Offers Free Medical Services In Port Harcourt To Mark 61st Anniversary

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has conducted a free medical outreach on Saturday in the Rumuomasi area of Port Harcourt as part of activities to mark its 61st anniversary.

Organised by the Nigerian Air Force Reference Hospital, the outreach provided free healthcare services, including medical consultations, dental and eye examinations, laboratory tests, and the distribution of medications and reading glasses.

The Commander of the 115 Special Operations Group, Group Captain Adekunle Abdulateef, represented by Wing Commander Bashir Adamu, described the outreach as a demonstration of NAF’s commitment to community service and a vital component of its corporate social responsibility.

“This medical outreach symbolizes our unwavering dedication to the people we serve. It reflects our effort to extend a healing touch beyond the confines of our air bases and into the hearts of our host communities. It is for the sustenance of civil-military relations within our working environments.

“As one of the arms of the Services of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the NAF has been at the forefront of responding to the welfare and emergency needs of its host communities through the provision of essential amenities or medical outreach,” Adamu said.

He noted that the choice of Rumuomasi Community for this Year’s medical outreach is borne out of their consideration to address the pressing health needs of the dwellers in the state, adding that the initiative, directed by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, was simultaneously taking place in various host communities across the country.

Air Commodore Ikechukwu Ogbodo, Commander of the NAF Reference Hospital, represented by Squadron Leader Tamunoene Ebenezer, reiterated the Air Force’s dedication to civil-military cooperation. He emphasized that the outreach was not only about providing healthcare but also about strengthening the bond between the military and civilians.

“Our effectiveness is not measured solely by our operational capabilities but also by our relationship with the civil populace. This initiative builds trust, fosters goodwill, and demonstrates that the Nigerian Air Force is a people-centered institution,” he said.

Participants at the event expressed gratitude. Mrs Babatunde Adetuji, who received free eye treatment, praised the NAF and prayed for the continued protection of its personnel. Another beneficiary, Engr. John Chinda commended the efficiency of the services, calling the outreach smooth and time-effective. Dozens of community members turned out to benefit from the initiative.