By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to giving back to society through a large-scale medical outreach that touched thousands of lives in Mbaise and surrounding communities in Imo State.
In collaboration with Nwagwu’s Health Initiative, the month-long programme, which ran through August 2025, provided free consultations to 11,231 residents and successfully performed 846 life-changing surgeries, bringing relief to families and individuals who otherwise lacked access to quality healthcare.
According to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, the outreach reflects the NAF’s deep commitment to humanity beyond its primary role of defending the nation.
“The Nigerian Air Force is not only about securing our airspace. We are committed to easing the burden of our people, especially in underserved communities. This initiative is our way of giving back and reinforcing the bond we share with the people we serve,” Air Marshal Abubakar said.
The outreach covered a wide range of specialized medical services, including 63 thyroidectomies, 118 gynaecological surgeries, 434 general surgeries, and 331 eye surgeries. Additionally, over 1,300 eyeglasses, walking aids, and crutches were distributed to people living with disabilities, restoring mobility and independence to many.
Beyond treatment, the programme emphasized community health education, teaching residents preventive care, hygiene practices, and maternal health to ensure lasting impact beyond the immediate intervention.
Additionally, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, Chief of Civil-Military Relations, highlighted that the outreach reflects the CAS’s vision of using civil-military cooperation to drive positive change.
“Every life touched here is a testament to the fact that the Air Force is not just a fighting force but a compassionate partner in nation-building,” Daramola said.
The Project Coordinator, Air Vice Marshal Uche Nwagwu, praised the collaboration between the NAF, local leaders, and health professionals, noting that the combined effort ensured smooth delivery of care to all beneficiaries.
"The smiles on the faces of these families are the true reward of this mission,” he said. “This is what giving back to society is all about creating real, lasting impact.”
However, with this successful medical outreach, the Nigerian Air Force has once again shown that its commitment to the people extends well beyond the skies, reinforcing trust, promoting unity, and proving that service to humanity remains at the heart of its operations.
