As part of its continued non-kinetic approach to fostering peace and promoting national development, the Nigerian Army has constructed and commissioned a state-of-the-art Primary Health Care Centre in Umuchieze, a rural community in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
The landmark health facility, named in honour of a retired Nigerian Army officer and former traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Majesty (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale (JP), Chieze II of Umuchieze, was delivered under the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) Special Intervention Projects initiative.
In a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the project was facilitated by the Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Nigerian Army, Major General K.O. Aligbe, who also represented the COAS, Lieutenant General OLUFEMI. Oluyede, at the commissioning ceremony.
The fully equipped health centre boasts a consultation unit, maternity and laboratory sections, a nurses’ station, medical store, modern sanitation facilities, perimeter fencing, and solar-powered lighting systems. It also includes a solar-powered borehole to guarantee clean water supply, ensuring 24-hour functionality and safety.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Kelvin .O. Aligbe emphasized the Nigerian Army’s resolve to support grassroots development and enhance civil-military relations through people-focused projects.
“This project is a demonstration of our belief that security is not only about boots on the ground, but also about building infrastructure that improves the daily lives of the people we are sworn to protect,” he stated.
Representing the Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, lauded the Army’s intervention, describing it as life-transforming. “This is not just a health centre; it is a symbol of hope and access. It means safer deliveries for our mothers, timely treatment for our children, and improved health outcomes for the entire community,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army), Major General Gold.U. Chibuisi, noted that the facility had received overwhelming support from traditional rulers and residents alike. He expressed optimism that the health centre would significantly reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in the area.
The Royal Father of the host community, HRM (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale (JP), Chieze III of Umuchieze, expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Army for honouring his people. He reaffirmed the community’s support for the military and hailed the project as a milestone that would deepen the existing cordial relationship between the Army and Umuchieze.
The commissioning ceremony attracted dignitaries, including the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General O.T. Olatoye, senior military officers, state health officials, traditional rulers, and a large gathering of residents who celebrated the Army’s developmental gesture.
The Umuchieze health project is one of several community development initiatives being undertaken by the Nigerian Army across the country to reinforce national unity, enhance welfare, and promote lasting peace through strategic non-combat interventions.
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