17 brigade delivers free healthcare to Katoge in mark of NADCEL 2025

By Fauziyya Lawal, Katsina

The 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Natsinta Barracks Katsina, on Thursday, July 3, 2025, conducted a one day medical outreach to the residents of Katoge community, Katsina Local Government Area, as part of activities commemorating the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration NADCEL.The outreach, which brought free medical consultations, treatment and health education to hundreds of residents, reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building stronger ties with its host communities while supporting national development beyond military duties.

Speaking during the flag off ceremony, the Commander of 17 Brigade, Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola said the outreach was strategically designed to touch lives in underserved communities where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge. He 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 limit access to standard healthcare facilities,” Omopariola explained.

“We prepared to cater to 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 well being.” General Omopariola emphasized that the outreach was not a one off event. He revealed that the Brigade’s medical facility would remain accessible to the Katoge community for continued primary health care services.

“We are working closely with the community to ensure sustained access to care. We expect mutual trust, understanding and collaboration going forward,” he added.

The Acting Commanding Officer of the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, Captain Kayinde Olakunle said the outreach focused on common but potentially life threatening ailments such as malaria, typhoid, respiratory tract infections, hypertension and diabetes. Dental services including scaling, polishing, tooth extractions and fillings were also provided.

“For severe or complicated cases, we are offering referrals to our medical centre or to the Federal Teaching Hospital,” he said. He further disclosed 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,” he noted.

The outreach attracted widespread appreciation from community members, many of whom had limited or no prior access to such medical services. The Village Head of Katoge, Alhaji Isiyaku Ado, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the community, describing the intervention as timely and impactful. “This is a noble gesture that has brought immense relief to our people. We are thankful to the Nigerian Army and we assure you of our continued support and cooperation,” he said