Nigerian Army Commissions Renovated Wards at Langtang North General Hospital
The Nigerian Army has officially commissioned newly renovated male and female wards at the General Hospital in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, as part of its Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) project.
The facility, renovated and funded by the Nigerian Army under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, was executed by Major General Nansak Shagaya, Deputy Chief of Operations (Army), Peace Support Operations. The commissioning ceremony was presided over on behalf of the COAS by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander, Operation Safe Haven, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola.
In his address, Maj Gen Oyinlola emphasized the importance of such interventions in strengthening the relationship between the Nigerian Army and host communities. “These projects are not only meant to offer relief but to reinforce our bond with the communities we serve,” he stated, noting that Plateau State has faced security challenges over the years.
He commended the people of Langtang for their cooperation and resilience, stating that their partnership with security agencies has significantly contributed to peace in the region. Oyinlola further clarified that the project was not politically motivated but aimed at fostering trust and improving civil-military relations.
The project included the replacement of roofing sheets with aluminum materials, installation of new hospital beds, casement windows, 36 new mattresses, modern toilet systems, tiled flooring, and the provision of a 3.2KV solar inverter system to power the facility.
Speaking during the event, Maj Gen Nansak Shagaya expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian Army leadership for the support and funding of the project. He noted that quality healthcare is critical to community wellbeing, adding that the renovated wards will enhance the efficiency of hospital staff and improve patient recovery.
“This intervention will reduce the risk of infections and provide a safer, more hygienic environment for both patients and staff,” Shagaya said. He called on the Plateau State Ministry of Health to adequately staff the hospital and recognized the efforts of 15 female volunteers who have served at the hospital for over a decade without compensation.
Representing Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Gayi Timothy, lauded the Nigerian Army for going beyond its security mandate to impact lives. “This project reinforces the spirit of collaboration and the shared commitment to a peaceful and healthy Plateau,” he remarked.
Director of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj Gen Remi Fadairo, also praised the initiative as part of the Army’s broader non-kinetic strategy to win the hearts and minds of the populace. “These kinds of projects enhance public trust and strengthen the Army’s ability to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities,” he noted.
Langtang North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem, expressed deep appreciation to Maj Gen Shagaya for bringing the project to life. “This initiative addressed a long-standing need in our community. It was executed swiftly and effectively, and we are truly grateful,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, religious leaders, retired military officers, health officials, and community members, all of whom commended the Nigerian Army for its continued commitment to community development and peacebuilding.
The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to continue implementing similar projects across the country as part of its corporate social responsibility and efforts to promote national security through development.