By Fauziyya Lawal, Katsina
In a heart warming show of service beyond the battlefield, the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Natsinta Barracks Katsina, brought vital healthcare services to the doorstep of Katoge residents on Thursday, July 3, as part of this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2025).
The one day free medical outreach held in Katoge community of Katsina Local Government Area, was flagged off by the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola. He described the exercise as a deliberate effort to strengthen civil military relations while addressing the health needs of underprivileged communities.
“Many families here can’t afford basic medical care. That’s why we are here to bridge that gap and give back to a community that hosts us,” Brig. Gen. Omopariola stated. He noted that the outreach aimed to serve up to 700 people and announced that the brigade’s medical centre would remain open to Katoge residents for continuous care.
The Army’s medical team, led by Acting Commanding Officer of the 17 Brigade Medical Centre Captain Kayinde Olakunle, provided a wide range of services including treatment for malaria, typhoid, respiratory infections, hypertension and diabetes. Dental procedures such as scaling, fillings and extractions were also offered. “We’re also distributing insecticide treated mosquito nets to children under five and referring complicated cases to specialist hospitals,” Capt. Olakunle added.
The event was greeted with joy by residents who turned out in large numbers to receive care. The Village Head of Katoge Alhaji Isiyaku Ado expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Army, calling the gesture “a lifeline” for the people. “This support is more than medical; it is a symbol of compassion. We are truly grateful” he said.
The outreach is part of a nationwide effort by the Nigerian Army to commemorate NADCEL by reaching out to local communities, promoting goodwill and reaffirming its role as a partner in peace, security and development.
