Mariam Sanni
As part of initiative in achieving a broader, ongoing civil-military cooperation strategy by the Nigerian military to enhance community trust through health interventions, the Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, NAFRC, Lagos State, Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo has organized a medical outreach for the society which its operate.
The event which was part of activities to mark 100 days in office of Commandant, Ilo was held at Ladipo Market, Lagos state.
The medical outreach provided free consultations, laboratory tests, eye screenings, dental care, and preventive treatments.
served residents and traders with consultations, tests, and eye/dental care.
AVM Ilo during his remark at the 2026 Medical Outreach explained that the outreach is a way of giving back positively to the society within which its operate.
According to him , the event also marks another significant initiative towards ensuring that the military maintains a strong and meaningful relationship with the communities around.
He acknowledged the remarkable role the market plays to the economy of the nation, adding that It is not only a hub of commerce but also a symbol of Nigerian ingenuity, resilience and entrepreneurship.
The commandant reassured that the Nigerian Armed Forces is not just a shield for the people, but a partner in their progress, emphasizing that Health is the ultimate currency of trade and productivity.
“It is with a deep sense of humility that I stand before you at this very important event held in commemoration of my first 100 days in office. I assumed duty as the 42nd Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Oshodi, on the 15th of December 2025 and would be achieving the milestone in a few days’ time.
“I therefore considered it wise to organize this medical outreach as a way of giving back positively to the society within which we operate. This event also marks another significant initiative towards ensuring that the military maintains a strong and meaningful relationship with the communities around.
“This Medical Outreach at the Ladipo International Market is a tangible manifestation of our “Service beyond the Barracks” initiative. We believe that a secure nation is built on the foundation of a healthy citizenry,” he stated.
He reaffirmed that the NAFRC is committed to explore ways of supporting initiatives that improve the lives of the people and strengthen the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the citizens.
He commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen OO Oluyede AFM, the Service Chiefs as well as the Chief of Defence Intelligence for their unwavering support and guidance to the Centre.
Responding , the President General Ladipo Auto Market , Prince Africanus Ogudoro, appreciated the NAFRC for the initiative, noting that it’s first of its kind.
He enjoined members of the market to make use of the opportunity of the medical outreach in knowing their health status .
“We’re very happy. It’s first of its kind. I will sincerely appreciate the hierarchy of NAFRC. Our relationship is very cordial for onset, they are our closest neighbors,” he said .
