The Nigerian Army has commissioned a state-of-the-art Primary Health Care facility in Umuchieze, Abia State, as part of its non-kinetic efforts to foster peace and improve public welfare. The project, executed under the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) Special Intervention Projects, is named in honour of retired Major and former traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Majesty (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale (JP), Chieze II of Umuchieze.
Facilitated by the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Major General K.O. Aligbe, who represented the COAS at the commissioning, the facility boasts a consultation unit, maternity and laboratory sections, nurses’ station, medical store, modern sanitation facilities, a solar-powered borehole, perimeter fencing, and solar-powered lighting for 24-hour service and security.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour, Lieutenant General O.O. Oluyede, represented by Major General Aligbe, said the initiative reflects the Army’s commitment to civil-military cooperation and grassroots development. “Security is not only about military presence but also about improving the welfare of citizens, especially in rural communities,” he said.
Representing the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, hailed the project as a beacon of hope for the community, noting it will provide timely medical care, safer childbirth, and improved health outcomes.
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army), Major General G.U. Chibuisi, highlighted the positive reception from community leaders, stressing that the facility would help reduce maternal and infant mortality rates while enhancing access to quality healthcare.
The Royal Father of Umuchieze, HRM (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale (JP), Chieze III, thanked the Nigerian Army for the project, pledging continued community support for the military.
The event was attended by the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Major General O.T. Olatoye, senior military officers, traditional rulers, health officials, and residents. The initiative forms part of similar development projects by the Nigerian Army in communities across Nigeria.