The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), W. Shaibu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to work closely with communities across the country to address security challenges and promote sustainable development.
The Army Chief made the remarks during the commissioning of the main block of the Umuhu Okabia Health Centre in Elugwu Okabia Community, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State. The project, executed by Kevin Okechukwu Ukandu, a Major General and Deputy Commandant/Director of Studies at the National Defence College Nigeria, was carried out under the COAS Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Projects and was formally inaugurated on 22 April 2026.
Representing the COAS at the ceremony, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, Oluremi Fadairo, commended the sacrifices and dedication of the project executor, noting that his service to the nation spans more than three decades. He described the project as impactful and well-conceived, adding that the facility would significantly improve healthcare delivery in the community.
General Shaibu also highlighted the Nigerian Army’s broader commitment to community development, noting that more than 250 intervention projects have been executed across the country’s six geopolitical zones. According to him, such initiatives form part of the Army’s non-kinetic approach to complement ongoing security operations.
The COAS expressed appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army, noting that the support has enhanced the Army’s operational, training and administrative capacity in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He also commended the government and people of Imo State, as well as residents of Elugwu Okabia and neighbouring communities, for their cooperation with security agencies. He urged them to continue providing timely and credible information that would help sustain peace and support socio-economic development in the area.
Earlier in his welcome address, Major General Ukandu described Elugwu Okabia as his community of birth and expressed deep personal commitment to its recovery and development. He recounted the devastating effects of more than four years of insecurity in the area, during which several critical infrastructures, including the health centre, were destroyed by criminal elements.
He explained that the reconstruction of the health facility represents a major step toward rebuilding the community and restoring access to essential healthcare services. According to him, the project symbolizes hope, resilience and renewed commitment to development through civil-military cooperation.
Ukandu also appreciated the support of the Imo State Government, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the project. He further called on residents to embrace peace, unity and collective responsibility in rebuilding the community.
Also speaking during the event, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs of the Nigerian Army, Major General Etsu-Ndagi, represented by Major General VD Beryo, commended the project executor for the initiative and dedication toward community development.
Highlights of the event included goodwill messages by the traditional ruler of the community, Eze Oliver Ochonma, the Ugwu II of Elugwu Okabia, as well as remarks by senior government officials including the Executive Chairman of Orsu Local Government Area. The ceremony also featured the presentation of souvenirs to dignitaries and a group photograph.
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