By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has said the Nigerian Air Force has in recent times recorded advancements in healthcare delivery to boost the wellbeing of its personnel.

Abubakar made this Known at the Men’s Health Awareness Dinner organised by the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that the NAF recently inaugurated the 065 NAF Hospital in Asokoro, as a vital step in bringing quality healthcare closer to our personnel in Abuja.

”Additionally, we have enhanced medical services across the 54 Nigerian Air Force medical facilities nationwide by providing advanced medical equipment and expanding access to specialized treatments.

“On Thursday last week, a total hip replacement surgery was conducted for an airman at the 563 NAF Hospital Jos, in collaboration with a team of doctors from the Jos University Teaching Hospital.

“This surgery was the first of its kind and a testament to the quality of our facilities and the professionalism of our medical personnel,’’ he said.

Abubakar said that NAF has increased allowances of its medical personnel, as well as funding for the NAFOWA Cancer Centre, where essential medical supplies had been secured to last a full year.

He added that a State-of-the-art colonoscopy and Ultrasound machines was recently procured for the Cancer Centre, adding that it would be installed by the end of November.

He said the dinner had reminded them men’s health was not just a personal issue but a collective one, with implications for families, operational readiness, and national security at large.

The CAS said the air force recognises the incredible demands and rigors that the military profession places on the personnel.

According to him, the long hours, physical endurance, and mental resilience required to serve the nation all come with their own set of stresses.

He said that there had been a notable uptick in mental health concerns, attributed to drug abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder among troops that confront security challenges in the country.

“The invaluable support of women, in their roles as spouses and mothers, is increasingly crucial in aiding our recovering warriors.
“When it comes to health, “Prevention is always better than cure.”

“In recognition of this maxim, the Nigerian Air Force has a standing policy on annual medical reviews for aircrew specialties and biennial medical reviews for non-aircrew.

“These are intended to aid in early detection of potentially life-threatening illnesses and ensure that we remain fit for active service,’’ he added.

The CAS urged all officers and airmen to commit themselves to regular medical check-ups, make lifestyle choices that support well-being, and not be ashamed to seek help when needed.

According to him, by prioritising our health, we are not only ensuring our personal well-being but also honouring our duty to the nation.

The President of NAFOWA, Dr Rakiya Abubakar, said the event was uniquely organised to appreciate and honour servicemen for their dedication to duty as well as their continuous efforts in providing for their families.

Abubakar said it was also a reminder and campaign to the servicemen to prioritise their health by observing routine check-up, regular exercise and maintaining good diet.

She said that Men’s Health Awareness Month was observed internationally in November annually to raise awareness on men’s health.

According to her, NAFOWA as an organisation, values the resilience of men and particularly the hard work of responsible men, who despite economic challenges and stress, put more effort to provide basic necessities for their families.

A Public Health Expert, Dr Isabela Okwudiri, outlined some primary preventive measures such as sleep, vaccinations, regular physical activities, smoking cessation and mental health support.

She said that health promotion and illness prevention in men were vital for addressing the unique health challenges they face.

According to her, by implementing targeted strategies that focus on education, lifestyle changes, mental health support, and preventive care, healthcare providers can significantly improve health outcomes for men.

“Encouraging a proactive approach to health not only enhances individual well-being but also contributes to broader public health goals.

“As societal norms evolve, it is crucial to continue advocating for men’s health and ensuring that they have the resources and support needed to lead healthier lives,’’ she said. (NAN)