The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday, inaugurated a remodelled critical care centre and a newly constructed helipad at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna.

The critical care centre was named after Mr Shaibu in recognition of his contributions to improving healthcare delivery and the welfare of Nigerian Army personnel.

The COAS also inaugurated a newly constructed 30-patient transit accommodation facility at the hospital as part of efforts to enhance medical services and welfare for troops and their families.

Speaking during the commissioning, Mr Shaibu said the helipad would significantly reduce the time required to evacuate wounded soldiers from operational areas to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital for critical medical care.

He said the shorter evacuation time would improve the chances of survival of soldiers wounded in action during various military operations across the country.

“Some of these operations have wounded-in-action soldiers who need critical care.

“The helipad, constructed by the Chief of Defence Staff, shortens the time it takes to bring the soldier here to this reference hospital, and once you do that, you enhance his chance of survival,” he said.

Mr Shaibu said the critical care centre was equipped with modern medical equipment capable of providing specialised treatment to critically ill and injured personnel.

He added that the facility would enable the hospital to provide the best available care to soldiers requiring critical medical attention.

The COAS said the other projects commissioned were largely welfare-related, particularly accommodation facilities designed to improve personnel living conditions.

At Ribadu Cantonment, the COAS inaugurated 12 two-bedroom flats and six three-bedroom flats for married officers.

He said the projects were part of the army’s efforts to improve the welfare and well-being of troops serving the country and carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

According to him, improved welfare remains essential to sustaining personnel morale and operational effectiveness.

Mr Shaibu also inspected ongoing projects within the 1 Division Nigerian Army Area of Responsibility.

The COAS commended personnel for their sacrifices and reaffirmed the army’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure, medical facilities and welfare support to enhance their effectiveness in securing the country.

(NAN)