Scores of Ladipo Spare-parts Market traders and Mushin residents have benefitted from a medical rapsody organised by the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, to celebrate the 100th day in office of its Commandant, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo.
The outreach, the Commandant said, was aimed at strengthening civil-military relations (CMR), adding that it would positively impact NAFRC’s immediate host community.
Explaining the choice of Ladipo Market as location for the outreach, AVM Ilo said it was a vital trading hub and represented the resilience, ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians.
According to him, thousands of hardworking traders and technicians gather daily at the market to provide services that keep vehicles running, businesses operating and families earning legitimate livelihoods.
The Commandant added that the outreach formed part of the centre’s “Service Beyond the Barracks” an initiative that promotes community engagement and public well-being.
“We believe that a secure nation is built on the foundation of a healthy citizenry. By stepping out of our gates and into one of Lagos’ most vibrant commercial centres, we are reaffirming that the Nigerian Armed Forces is not just a shield for the people but also a partner in their progress,” he said.
The outreach, held Wednesday, was organised in partnership with Fidson Healthcare Plc, Golden Penny, Providus Bank, Drugfield Pharmaceuticals, Multipro Consumer Products, Fidelity Bank, Greenlife Pharmaceuticals, NAFRCOWA, Drugstoc, Sangdid Foundation for Family Wellbeing and the Mushin Local Government Area.
Earlier, the Chairman, Mushin Local Government Area, Tunbosun Atuwe, commended the Commandant for his proactive leadership and community engagement since assuming office.
Atuwe noted how the Commandant’s first 100th days has inspired confidence among residents, and strengthened collaboration between the military and civil authorities.
In his remarks, the President-General, Ladipo International Market Association, Prince Africanus Ogudoro, said the outreach was the first of its kind in the market, praising the Commandant for bringing the initiative to traders.
He urged traders and residents to take advantage of the free medical services and health checks provided during the programme.