The Nigerian Army has provided free medical services to more than 500 residents of Oke Ode community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and support host communities.

The outreach, organised by the Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Nigerian Army, featured medical consultations, dental treatment, counselling, laboratory services, general medical examinations and the distribution of free drugs and mosquito nets.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Awwal Etsu-Ndagi, who represented the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaib, said the initiative was part of the Army's non-kinetic activities aimed at sustaining cordial relations between the military and communities hosting its operations.

Etsu-Ndagi urged beneficiaries to take advantage of the health services provided, listen attentively to medical advice and adopt healthy practices.

A major highlight of the outreach was the symbolic administration of deworming medication to 10 children aged 10 years and below by the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs.

In his welcome address, a community leader, retired Colonel Oladele Babajamu, commended the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs for the gesture.

Babajamu urged residents of Oke Ode and neighbouring communities to reciprocate the Army's support by cooperating with security personnel in efforts to combat insecurity in Kwara South.

Also speaking, the Elesa of Oke Ode, His Royal Majesty Oba Mufuatu Ibrahim Adebayo Ilufemiloye I, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for approving the outreach.

The traditional ruler pledged the continued support of the community for the Nigerian Army in Kwara South.

Other dignitaries at the event included the Akunyun of Labaka, His Royal Majesty Oba Mohammed Quasim Isa; the Oniyaru of Yaru, His Royal Majesty Oba Alidu Afolabi; Navy Captain Jimoh (rtd.); and Major Sam Adewumi (rtd.).

The outreach formed part of the Nigerian Army's broader civil-military engagement initiatives designed to promote community welfare, public confidence and cooperation in support of security operations.