Nigerian Air Force has in furtherance of its commitment to enhanced civil-military relations, provided free health care services to over two hundred Lagos Island residents.

Air Officer Commanding, AOC, Air Vice Marshal Abdulganiyu Olabisi, who inaugurated the outreach, said the programme was part of activities to mark the 55th anniversary of NAF’s establishment in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Air Force, the air arm of the Nigerian Armed Forces, was formally established on 18 April, 1964.

The establishment was with the passage of the Air Force Act 1964 by the then National Assembly.

According to Olabisi, as part of the activities lined up to mark the occasion, we have decided to have a medical outreach, this year.

“Patients will be treated and when necessary, some people may still be referred to our medical unit for further checkups.

“Being a responsible corporate citizen, NAF pays special and particular attention to the relationship between the NAF and its host communities and that is the reason why we are here to show our appreciation.

The AOC also said the medical out­reach was NAF’s way to show appreciation, as well as identify with the host communities, their neigh­bours and the general public.

The medical outreach entailed free awareness cam­paign, as well as checking of blood and sugar levels of residents of its host communities.

Others are tests for malaria and hepatitis; oral and dental treatment, eye tests, and the provision of free drugs and glasses to those who needed them.

A beneficiary of the outreach, Balikisu Saheed, appreciated the NAF medical team for the free drugs, and implored them to make it a regular exercise.

“I am most grateful and touched by this free medical outreach,’’ he said.

Another beneficiary, Akeem Ganiyu, also appreciated NAF for the gesture, adding that it was one of the best memories of NAF to the entire community.