By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Air Force War College (AFWC), Makurdi, has provided free medical care to about 200 residents of Tyomu Community in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State.
The outreach, organised in collaboration with the 161 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Makurdi, was part of activities marking the 10th anniversary of the college.
Speaking on Saturday during the exercise, the Commandant of the college, AVM Air Gambo Mmbaka, said the initiative was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the institution and its host communities while improving the welfare of residents.
The medical exercise featured free blood pressure and blood sugar checks, eye screening, provision of eyeglasses, medicines and other medical services.
Mmbaka said the gesture was the college’s way of giving back to the community and appreciating residents for their hospitality, goodwill and continued support over the years.
He described Tyomu as an important part of the environment in which the college had operated and grown during its first decade.
“Today, we have come not only to celebrate with you, but also to serve you, care for you and share the joy of our 10th anniversary with you,” he said.
The commandant said the anniversary celebration could not be restricted to the walls of the institution, stressing that it must also extend to communities that had contributed to the college’s growth and development.
He expressed optimism that the outreach would further strengthen the bond of friendship, cooperation and mutual understanding between the college and the people of Tyomu.
Also speaking, the Commander, 161 NAF Hospital and Coordinator of the outreach, Air Commodore Daniel Akpan, said at least 200 residents were expected to benefit from the exercise.
Akpan added that beneficiaries requiring further medical attention would be referred to the 161 NAF Hospital for appropriate treatment.
Earlier, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr Joseph Keffi, congratulated the college on its 10 years of service and excellence.
Represented by his deputy, Mr Maxwell Adoor, Keffi said the medical outreach demonstrated the strong relationship between the Nigerian Air Force and the people of Makurdi.
The Village Head of Tyomu, Mr Joseph Nongu, represented by an elder, Mr Tondo Thomas, thanked the college for the gesture, saying it had provided relief to members of the community.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Vataver David, also expressed appreciation, saying the eyeglasses he received had improved his ability to read and recognise alphabets.
