The Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo, has organised a free medical outreach for traders and residents at the Ladipo International Auto Parts Market in Lagos as part of activities marking his first 100 days in office.
Speaking during the outreach on Wednesday, the Commandant said the initiative was aimed at giving back to the society and strengthening the relationship between the military and the civilian population.
Air Vice Marshal Ilo, who assumed office as the 42nd Commandant of NAFRC on December 15, 2025, explained that the medical programme was organised to positively impact the host community while reflecting on the milestone of his administration.
He described Ladipo Market as a vital hub in Nigeria’s economic landscape, noting that the market represents the resilience, ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians.
According to him, thousands of hardworking traders and technicians gather daily at the market to provide services that keep vehicles running, businesses operating and families earning legitimate livelihoods.
The Commandant added that the outreach formed part of the Centre’s “Service Beyond the Barracks” initiative, which seeks to promote community engagement and public well-being.
“We believe that a secure nation is built on the foundation of a healthy citizenry. By stepping out of our gates and into one of Lagos’ most vibrant commercial centres, we are reaffirming that the Nigerian Armed Forces is not just a shield for the people but also a partner in their progress,” he said.
He also acknowledged the support of several corporate organisations that partnered with the Centre to make the programme possible, including Fidson Healthcare Plc, Golden Penny, Providus Bank, Drugfield Pharmaceuticals and Multipro Consumer Products.
Other partners recognised were Fidelity Bank, Greenlife Pharmaceuticals, NAFRCOWA, Drugstoc, Sangdid Foundation for Family Wellbeing and the Mushin Local Government Area.
The Commandant expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa Rtd,and other service chiefs for their continued support to the Centre.
He also thanked Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for providing the support and resources that enable the Armed Forces to undertake community-focused initiatives.
Earlier, the Chairman of Mushin Local Government Area, Hon. Tunbosun Atuwe, commended the Commandant for his proactive leadership and community engagement since assuming office.
Atuwe noted that the milestone of the Commandant’s first 100 days had already begun to inspire confidence among residents, while strengthening collaboration between the military and local authorities.
In his remarks, the President-General of the Ladipo International Market Association, Prince Africanus Ogudoro, described the outreach as the first of its kind in the market and praised the Commandant for bringing the initiative to traders.
He urged traders and residents to take advantage of the free medical services and health checks provided during the programme.
The Commandant reaffirmed that the NAFRC would continue to support initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of citizens and strengthening the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the communities they serve.
