In a heartwarming ceremony held at the 3 Division Medical Hospital and Services, 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), in demonstration of philanthropy to the public and profound commitment to community welfare Nigeria Army has donated a wheelchair to a 14 year old physically challenged secondary school student, Mathew Mustapha of Government Secondary School Mr Ali Jos and ordered the 3 Division Medical hospital to take up his free medical treatment.
Additionally, three sewing machines were presented to beneficiaries of the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme (MDHIP).
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division/Commander OPSH, while making the presentation to the student narrated that, he first saw Mathew during a tree planting campaign exercise organized by Plateau Peace Building at Mr Alli area Jos and felt compassion while noticing how he struggled with his old tricycle to get to his destination. General Abubakar immediately ordered the student be brought to 3 Div Medical Hospital for free medical care and other assistance.
He further noted that the presentation of the sewing machines to the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme beneficiaries is aimed at promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment. He directed that the recipients who will undergo training in tailoring at the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association Skills Acquisition Centre Jos, will have the tools needed to start their own businesses, thereby improving their livelihoods and contributing to the economy.
The Director General Plateau Peace Building Agency, Dr Julie Sandas who was present at the brief ceremony applauded the kind gesture of the Nigerian Army and called on organizations and individuals to emulate the kind gesture towards supporting the vulnerable members of the society.
While appreciating the Force, the grandfather of the student Mr Thaddius M Shaibu revealed that Mathew was an orphan born with physical disabilities and underlying health issues that required medical attention. He stated that, since taking over the responsibilities of caring for Mathew and his two other siblings, nobody had come to his aid untill he was informed about the philanthropic gesture towards his grandson. He said, providing Mathew with mobility and free treatment will significantly enhance his mobility and daily life, enabling him to pursue his education with greater ease and independence. He further prayed for the Military to always succeed in their mission of securing the citizens.
On his part, the Commander 3 Division Medical Hospital and Services, Brigadier General A. A Omobethai expressed gratitude for the generous contributions to the hospital. “These donations will have a lasting impact on the lives of the beneficiaries. The wheelchair will transform Mr. Mathew’s educational experience, while the sewing machines will provide sustainable income opportunities for the programme’s participants,” He stated.
