The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), on Saturday, offered free medical services to no fewer than 2,000 beneficiaries with preventable diseases at the Hayin Banki community in Kaduna, Kaduna State.

The Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Air Training  Command, AVM Ahmed Dari, said the medical outreach was in commemoration of the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st anniversary.

He said NAF, under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff, Hassan Abubakar,  prioritises healthcare access to host its communities as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The AOC was represented by Chief of Staff, AVM Ibitayo Ajiboye.

The medical outreach included: Diagnosis, treatment, laboratory tests, medicated glasses, dental screening, provision of mosquito nets, and counselling, among others.

Mr Dari said, “In line with the CAS’s directive to prioritise community-focused initiatives, NAF is today giving back to the good people of Hayin Banki through this medical outreach.

“Over 2,000 community members are expected to benefit from the outreach, which aims to assuage the suffering of the less privileged.”

He said that the outreach signified their commitment towards improving non-kinetic operations and meaningful community engagements.

“In the course of this health initiative, various medical conditions would be diagnosed and treated, while some of those with more severe cases would be referred to the 461 Nigerian Air Force Hospital for further care,” Mr Dari said.

According to the AOC, the gesture will have a lasting impact on the overall health of the people, reduce mortality from preventable diseases and promote their overall wellness.

Mr Dari reiterated their commitment to intermittently reach out to the members of their host communities to ensure that the burden of preventable diseases is minimised.

Earlier, the commander, 461 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Group Capt. Osagie Cole, said NAF was committed to giving back to the community as well as improving the health and well-being of its people.

Mr Cole said the outreach would provide a range of services, including health education sessions, consultations, screenings and treatments.

He said, “Partnership between NAF and host communities symbolises a profound partnership between it and its host communities, rooted in the belief that access to quality medical care is a fundamental right.”

The commander expressed gratitude to the COS, AOC, air training command, and the medical team for their support and hard work.

Mr Cole said that the medical outreach would make a significant difference in the lives of the residents of the community.

He added, ”The event reflects the NAF’s commitment to humanitarian service and its role in promoting the health and well-being of its host communities.”

Also speaking, the Sarkin Hayin Banki, Mahmud Galadima, appreciated NAF for the invaluable gesture.

Mr Galadima, who was represented by Nasiru Babangida, Santurakin Hayin Banki, said the community would support NAF at any time.

(NAN)