The 23 Brigade , Nigeria Army , Yola , on Saturday treated more than 784 patients in Gashaka Local Government Area of Taraba under its Medical Outreach Programme .
Speaking at the occasion in Serti , the Commander of the Brigade , Brig. Gen . Mohammed Bello , said the exercise , which was the third in the state this year, after the ones conducted in Wukari and Ibi , was aimed at fostering cordial relationship between the military and civilian population .
Bello said the exercise was in line with the vision of the Chief of Army Staff , Lt- Gen . Turum Buratai, geared towards encouraging cordial relationship with civilians in all areas the military is conducting special operation .
He urged community leaders and the traditional institution to ensure synergy between the two groups so as to support the effort of Federal Government in providing adequate security to citizens .
In his remarks , Capt . Zabur Yusuf , leader of the team , said that they were undertaking free treatment for ailments such as glaucoma , dental surgery, malaria, ante - natal services for pregnant women , ultrasound services and other related diseases that are very common in rural areas .
He assured them of the safety of the exercise and urged the people to make the best use of the opportunity provided by accessing free drugs and services .
Also speaking , Commanding Officer of the 20 Model Battalion , Serti , Lt. Col. Sani Adamu , commended the vision of the Chief of Army Staff for upgrading the battalion to a training institution for officers and men of the Nigerian Army.
Adamu said that apart from routine regimental and leaderships courses being undertaken for graduates of the Nigeria Defence Academy ( NDA ) , about 700 officers are currently undergoing six weeks conversion board training in the barracks in Serti .
He said Buratai had visited the barracks many times since he assumed office , and also ensured that social amenities were provided.
“New generating sets were provided as the barracks runs 24 hours on diesel , while the water treatment plant, military hospital , as well as accommodation for both officers and men, have received a boost ,” he said .
On his part, the Lamido ( paramount ruler ) of Gashaka , Alhaji Zubairu Hamman - Gabdo ,expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for upgrading facilities in the Army Barracks in Serti .
He said the activities of the military in the area has not only increased security of lives and property of his subjects , but also boosted economic activities in his domain.
Zubairu assured them of continuous cooperation of the traditional council and his subjects.