Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
In a demonstration of unity, compassion, and partnership, the Defence Headquarters of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s Civil-Military Relations Department has organized a series of outreach activities aimed at fostering stronger bonds between the military and the local populace.
The event, held under the overarching theme of strengthening civil-military relations, was marked by community engagement, medical outreach, sensitization on gender-based violence, and a friendly football match to promote unity and wellness.
The General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander joint taskforce Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Ibinkule Ajose, welcomed dignitaries, military personnel with warmth and sincerity.
In his address, Major General Ajose emphasized the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to securing the nation while also playing a proactive role in community development.
The Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations at the Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Olusanya A. Bankole, who represented the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, echoed the sentiments of unity and mutual respect in his keynote remarks.
He highlighted the strategic importance of civil-military cooperation, particularly in conflict-prone areas, and the need for ongoing dialogue and support for civilians.
A key highlight of the event was the free medical outreach program, which provided much-needed healthcare services to hundreds of residents at Dambuwa Gidan Gabas.
Medical professionals from the Nigerian Army Medical Corps attended to ailments ranging from malaria and respiratory infections to eye care and maternal health consultations. Free medications and health education materials were also distributed.
In a bid to address the rising concerns of gender-based violence (GBV), a sensitization lecture was held at 8 Division auditorium Giginya Barracks Sokoto.
The session emphasized the military’s zero-tolerance stance on GBV and the importance of community involvement in reporting and preventing such acts.
Crowning the day’s activities was a football match between a select team of Barracks boys and Dambuwa local youth representatives.
The match, played in a friendly atmosphere at Dambuwa Gidan Gabas Primary School football pitch which drew an enthusiastic crowd and served as a metaphor for teamwork, fair play, and unity between the military and civilian communities.
It also served as a powerful reminder that, the military’s role in society transcends security.
According to CDS the Defence Headquarters, under Civil military relations Department will continue to champion initiatives that will bring civilians and security forces together.
