The Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade, through Brig.-Gen. Joshua Omoparioala, has stated efforts to build stronger relationships with host communities in Katsina State.
As part of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebrations, the brigade organized a one-day medical outreach to the Katoge community, providing free medical consultations, treatment, and health education to hundreds of residents.
He made the declaration to the residents of Katoge community, Katsina Local Government Area, stating the medical outreach was strategically planned to promote militar–civilian relationships.
Brig.-Gen. Omopariola also stated that the outreach was strategically designed to touch lives to the local communities where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge.
He further described the intervention as part of the Army’s broader civil military cooperation initiative under the NADCEL framework.
“This community was carefully selected because of the limited economic opportunities available to residents, which often limits their access to standard healthcare facilities.
“We are prepared to cater for between 500 and 700 people. Our goal is to show that the Nigerian Army is not just a symbol of security but a partner in progress and wellbeing.
“The outreach was not a one off event, as the Brigade’s medical facility would remain accessible to the Katoge community for continued primary health care services to the community.
“We are working closely with the community to ensure sustained access to health care. We expect mutual trust, understanding and collaboration going forward.”
Acting Commanding Officer of the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, Capt. Kayinde Olakunle said the outreach focused on common but potentially life threatening ailments such as malaria, typhoid, respiratory tract infections, hypertension and diabetes.
He said that insecticide treated mosquito nets were distributed to children under five years of age to combat malaria, one of the most common health challenges in the region.
“This is part of our preventive health effort, especially for vulnerable groups,” the Capt. said.
Appreciation the outreach attracted widespread from community members, many of whom had limited or no prior access to such medical services.
The Village Head of Katoge, Alhaji Isiyaku Ado, thanked the Nigerian Army on behalf of the community, praising the medical outreach as timely and impactful. He acknowledged the gesture as a noble act that brought significant relief to the people.
The community leader assured the Army of their continued support and cooperation, expressing gratitude for the initiative that positively touched the lives of many residents.
