……Commissions Health Centre in Orsu, Imo State
As part of efforts to consolidate peace and strengthen community resilience in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has assured the good people of Igboland that he will work closely with them to clear the remnants of security challenges hybernating in some parts of the region.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni acting deputy director army public relations 82 division Nigerian army said he gave this assurance during the commissioning ceremony of a remodelled health centre in Enugwu Okabia Community in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State. The project, executed by Major General Kevin Okechukwu Ukandu under the COAS Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Projects, was formally inaugurated on 22 April 2026.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the COAS, represented by the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Fadairo assured the people that Nigerian Army will continue to work closely with citizens and governments at all levels to address security challenges and promote national development.
General Shaibu highlighted the Nigerian Army’s broader commitment to community development, noting that over 250 intervention projects have been executed across the six geopolitical zones of the country. He explained that these initiatives form part of the Army’s non-kinetic operations, designed to complement ongoing security efforts in addressing the nation’s challenges.
He commended the sacrifices and dedication of the project initiator to the nation, noting that his service to the fatherland spans over three decades. He described the project as well-conceived and impactful, adding that the facility would significantly improve healthcare delivery in the area.
The COAS expressed appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army. He noted that such support has strengthened the Army’s operational, training, and administrative capacity in safeguarding the nation’s security and territorial integrity.
He also commended the government and people of Imo State, as well as residents of Enugwu Okabia and neighbouring communities, for their cooperation and support. He urged them to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that such collaboration is essential for sustaining peace and enabling socio-economic development.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Project Executor and Deputy Commandant, and Director of Studies, National Defence College, Major General Kevin Okechukwu Ukandu, welcomed the Special Guest of Honour and other distinguished guests to Umuhu Okabia, describing the community as his place of birth and expressing deep personal commitment to its recovery and development.
He recounted the devastating impact of over four years of insecurity, during which critical infrastructure, including the health centre, was destroyed by criminal elements. He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their sustained efforts in restoring peace and enabling displaced residents to begin returning home.
Major General Ukandu noted that the reconstruction of the health centre represents a critical step in rebuilding the community and restoring access to essential healthcare services. He emphasized that the project symbolizes hope, resilience, and a renewed commitment to development through civil-military cooperation. While appreciating the COAS for initiating such impactful projects, he also acknowledged the vital contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders in ensuring the successful completion of the project. He further called on members of the community to embrace peace, unity, and collective responsibility in rebuilding the community.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of goodwill messages by His Royal Majesty, Eze Oliver Ochonma, Egwu II of Elugwu Okabia, as well as by senior government officials, including the Executive Chairman of Orsu Local Government Area, among others. The ceremony also featured the presentation of souvenirs to dignitaries and a group photograph.
