Residents of the Sabon-Gari area in Bwari, Abuja, were treated to a rare act of kindness on June 8, 2024, when over 200 individuals received free medical care at a local parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). The event, which provided much-needed healthcare services, was sponsored by the 26th Batch of the Nigerian Navy in collaboration with the Mjay Skills and Health Foundation.
Ajibola, a resident of the community, shared his gratitude: “I had been using my old glasses for almost eight years now, but today, I’ve been given a new pair for free.” His experience was echoed by many who benefited from the outreach, which included free medical tests, treatments, and even the distribution of medicated glasses.
The outreach was organised as part of the 8th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy’s Batch 26 Alpha Kilo. Despite being held at a church, the event welcomed people of all faiths and backgrounds, drawing together Christians, Muslims, and even those with no religious affiliation. The resident pastor of the parish, Ebenezer Oso, emphasised the inclusivity and significance of the initiative, calling it a “unique opportunity provided by God” that would “have a positive impact on this society.”
Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges have made healthcare increasingly inaccessible to many. With over a hundred million Nigerians, particularly women and children, lacking access to healthcare, initiatives like this outreach are a critical lifeline. Statistics indicate that only 43.3% of Nigerians have access to quality primary healthcare services, a situation further exacerbated by inflation and a growing population. Many are forced to rely on herbal remedies and self-medication, widening the gap in healthcare accessibility.
The outreach provided anti-malarial medications, blood tests, eye screenings, and free medicated glasses. For those with more severe health issues, free treatment at a military hospital was promised.
One of the most striking aspects of the day was the interaction between the Navy personnel and the local residents. “Usually, we’ve been wired to believe that anyone wearing this military uniform is someone we should be afraid of. It’s very refreshing to see them interact with us like this. They are smiling. I didn’t know army officers could smile,” remarked Miss Adura, a resident of the neighbourhood.
The Sabon-Gari area of the Bwari Area Council is one of many suburban communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) where many residents live below the poverty line. For Ajibola and others in the community, the outreach was more than just a day of free medical care—it was a beacon of hope in challenging times, demonstrating the profound impact that acts of kindness and collaboration can have on the lives of ordinary people.
On June 8, 2024, over 200 residents in Sabon-Gari, Bwari, Abuja, received free medical care at an outreach event organized by the 26th Batch of the Nigerian Navy and the Mjay Skills and Health Foundation at the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The initiative included free medical tests, treatments, and the distribution of medicated glasses, benefiting many, including Ajibola, who received new glasses. This outreach was commemorating the 8th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy's Batch 26 Alpha Kilo and welcomed people of all faiths.
The event was seen as a relief in a country where healthcare access is limited due to economic challenges, with only 43.3% of Nigerians accessing quality primary healthcare. The program also promised free treatment at military hospitals for severe cases. Interactions between the Navy personnel and local residents broke down fears and misconceptions about the military, with residents expressing surprise and gratitude at the friendly approach of the military officers. For the impoverished community, the outreach was a significant source of hope and demonstrated the positive impact of collaborative efforts.
