By Aga Samuel Imoter, Jalingo
The Nigerian Optometrists Association (NOA), Taraba State Chapter, has provided free eye care services to 408 beneficiaries across formations of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026.
The outreach, conducted in collaboration with the 6 Brigade, offered comprehensive eye examinations, health education, free medications, reading glasses and referrals for personnel, their families and members of host communities.
A total of 408 people benefited from the programme, comprising 99 in Sunkani, 135 at the 114 Battalion in Jimilari and 174 at the Headquarters of the 6 Brigade in Jalingo. More than 100 reading glasses were distributed, while several beneficiaries received medications and others requiring specialist treatment were referred to appropriate health facilities.
Speaking during the outreach, Chairman of the NOA, Taraba State Chapter, Dr. Benjamin Chigbu, said the initiative was organised to appreciate the sacrifices of military personnel and improve access to quality eye care services.
He commended the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, for supporting the programme and prioritising the welfare of officers, soldiers, their families and neighbouring communities.
“The approval and support given to this outreach reflect the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the health and well-being of its personnel and the communities around its formations,” he said.
In his remarks, Brig. Gen. Akaliro praised the association for the humanitarian initiative, describing the programme as one that boosted troop morale and strengthened civil-military relations.
The association also acknowledged the Brigade Commander’s support in creating an enabling environment for the outreach and extending its benefits to members of surrounding communities.
Following the success of the programme, the Brigade Commander approved the expansion of the outreach to other military formations, including Serti and Takum.
The NOA reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Nigerian Army and other stakeholders to improve access to quality eye care services across Taraba State.
