In a significant stride toward enhancing grassroots healthcare delivery in Abia State, the Nigerian Army has commissioned a modern medical facility in the Umuchieze community, Umunneochi Local Government Area. The newly completed health centre was officially handed over to the community in a ceremony that drew key military personnel and state government officials.
Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu, Head of the Due Process and Public Procurement Bureau, Abia State, commended the Nigerian Army for its collaboration with the state government in addressing healthcare challenges.
“Today marks a pivotal step in our joint mission to improve healthcare access for all Abians. The Nigerian Army has not only built a facility but invested in the health and future of this community. This partnership is a model of what can be achieved when institutions work hand-in-hand for the public good,” Dr. Chukwu stated.
Named "HRM (Eze) Reuben Oguchi Okwale (JP) Chieze II of Umuchieze Memorial Health Centre", the facility honours the memory of a late traditional ruler and retired Army Major, who was deeply respected in the community.
Representing Governor Alex Otti, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, praised the Army for its proactive role in civil-military partnerships.
“This remarkable gesture reflects the synergy needed to uplift the health of Ndi Abia. The facility will greatly serve Umuchieze and neighbouring communities,” he noted. He urged the residents to take ownership of the health centre, protect it, and fully utilise its services.
Governor Otti also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s continued support of civil-military cooperation and his administration’s dedication to public health and security.
Major General K.O. Aligbe, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. O.O. Oluyede, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to community development.
“This health facility reflects the Army’s ongoing efforts to promote peace, stability, and social welfare through community-based projects,” Gen. Aligbe remarked.
Executed by the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers under the operational oversight of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, the facility highlights the military’s evolving role in humanitarian and infrastructural development.
Designed to offer comprehensive primary healthcare services, the centre is expected to serve thousands of residents in Umuchieze and neighbouring areas—bridging rural healthcare gaps and improving health outcomes across the region.
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