The Air Force War College (AFWC), Makurdi, has provided medical care to 200 Benue residents and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with host communities through initiatives aimed at improving their welfare.
The Commandant, AVM Air Gambo Mmbaka, stated this on Saturday during a free medical outreach organised in conjunction with the 161 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Makurdi.
The outreach was held for residents of Tyomu Community in Makurdi Local Government Area as part of activities marking the College’s 10th anniversary.
The exercise provided residents with free blood pressure and blood sugar checks, eye screening, eyeglasses, medicines and other medical services.
Mmbaka said the initiative was designed to give back to the community and appreciate residents for their hospitality, goodwill and continued support to the college.
He described Tyomu as an important part of the environment within which the college had operated and grown over the past decade.
“Today, we have come not only to celebrate with you, but also to serve you, care for you and share the joy of our 10th anniversary with you,” he said.
The commandant said the anniversary celebration could not be confined to the walls of the institution but must also extend to communities that contributed to its growth.
He expressed optimism that the outreach would further strengthen the bond of friendship and cooperation between the college and Tyomu residents.
Speaking, the Commander, 161 NAF Hospital and Coordinator of the outreach, Air Commodore Daniel Akpan, said at least 200 residents would benefit from the exercise.
Akpan said beneficiaries requiring further medical attention would be referred to the NAF hospital for appropriate care.
Earlier, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr Joseph Keffi congratulated the college on its 10 years of excellence and service to the nation.
Represented by his deputy, Mr Maxwell Adoor, Keffi said the medical outreach demonstrated the strong relationship between the Nigerian Air Force and the people of Makurdi.
The Village Head of Tyomu, Joseph Nongu, represented by one of the elders Tondo Thomas, thanked the college for the gesture, saying it had brought relief to members of the community.
A beneficiary, Vataver David, also expressed appreciation, saying that the eyeglasses he received had improved his ability to read and recognise alphabets.(NAN) www.nannews.ng
