By Martha Obi, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has inaugurated a newly completed Paediatric Ward and a rehabilitated General Ward at the Gwagwarwa Comprehensive Clinic and Maternity Centre in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, AVM Ibikunle Daramola, reaffirmed NAF’s dedication to fostering trust and collaboration with the civil populace through non-kinetic interventions that complement kinetic operations.
“This project reflects our belief that national security is best sustained through cooperation and mutual trust between the military and the people we serve,” he stated.
He further explained that, “The Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects were conceived to support community development, strengthen the bond between the NAF and its host communities, and contribute to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Through projects like this, we aim to win hearts and minds, ensuring that communities feel the tangible impact of the Air Force’s service beyond the skies,” the CAS added.
The landmark project, executed under the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar’s Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects (QIP) initiative, underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to strengthening civil-military relations and improving the well-being of host communities.
Executed in honour of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Kabir Mukhtar Umar, the project involved the completion, furnishing, and equipping of the Paediatric Ward as well as a comprehensive renovation of the General Ward, featuring solar lighting, 20 hospital beds, and modern medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, radiant warmers, pulse oximeters, and resuscitators.
The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, was represented by Dr Balarabe Ibrahim Gaya, Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Intervention Programmes.
While inaugurating the project, Dr Gaya commended the Nigerian Air Force for its people-oriented initiatives and partnership with the Kano State Government in advancing public healthcare.
He noted that the intervention demonstrates the NAF’s genuine concern for citizens’ welfare, describing it as a clear example of the military’s contribution to sustainable community development.
“This project brings renewed hope to our people and complements our administration’s efforts to make quality healthcare accessible to all. We deeply appreciate the NAF’s continued collaboration and commitment to improving lives in Kano State,” he stated.
Appreciating the Chief of the Air Staff for his vision, AVM Kabir Mukhtar Umar described the intervention as a transformation of a long-standing healthcare challenge into a beacon of hope for the people.
“This project is more than a structure; it is a symbol of care, service, and remembrance,” he said, noting that it would benefit families in Gwagwarwa and neighbouring communities by improving child health and general healthcare delivery.
The Paediatric and General Wards, named Mukhtar Memorial Ward, he explained, honours his late father, Alhaji Mukhtar Umar, the pioneer dispenser at the clinic in the 1960s.
AVM Umar recalled the facility’s growth from a small dispensary to a full-fledged health centre, now revitalised through the NAF’s Quick Impact Project initiative.
He expressed gratitude to the Kano State Government, local authorities, and residents for their collaboration in making the project a success.
Air Marshal Abubakar lauded AVM Umar for his commitment to his community and called on residents to take ownership of the facility.
“I urge the people of Gwagwarwa to use these wards responsibly and support the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies by providing timely information that enhances security.
“Together, we can sustain peace and protect our nation,” he charged.
The CAS also commended the Kano State Government for its partnership and continuous support towards community-oriented programmes.
He reassured Nigerians of NAF’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding lives and property, and its resolve to leverage technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships for smarter delivery of airpower in defence of the nation.
“Our mission goes beyond defending the skies; it is about protecting lives, empowering communities, and building a secure, prosperous Nigeria,” the CAS affirmed.