Oluyede: Security Not Only About Military Presence, But Improved Living Conditions

Linus Alekein Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has said security was not only about military presence, but also about improved standard of living of citizens, especially in rural communities.

Oluyede also restated the commitment of the Nigerian Army to strengthening civil-military relations and supporting grassroots development.

The COAS stated this while commissioning the newly constructed state-of-the-art Primary Health Care facility in the Umuchieze community in Abia State.

Represented by the Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Nigerian Army, Minna, Major General Kevin Aligbe, the Army Chief stated that the project was part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to foster peace and improve public welfare through non-kinetic interventions.

This landmark initiative, executed under the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) Special Intervention Projects and facilitated by the Commander TRADOC, was named in honour of a retired Major in the Nigerian Army and traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Majesty (Eze) Reuben OguchiOkwale (JP), Chieze II of Umuchieze.

A statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel OlabisiAyeni, said the newly commissioned health care centre was heavily equipped.

This included a fully functional consultation unit, maternity and laboratory sections, a nurses’ station, medical store, modern sanitation facilities, a solar-powered borehole for clean water supply, perimeter fencing, and solar-powered lighting systems to ensure round-the-clock functionality and security.

The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, commended the Nigerian Army for its impactful intervention.

Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch OgbonnayaUche, the governor said, “This facility is more than just a building; it is a beacon of hope. It represents quick access to medical attention, safer childbirth for our mothers, timely treatment for our children, and a stronger, healthier community.”

Earlier, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army), Major General Gold Chibuisi, noted that the project was warmly received by traditional rulers and residents, who described it as life-saving.

He stressed that the facility would significantly reduce maternal and infant mortality and improve access to quality healthcare services in the area.