The Defence Headquarters, in collaboration with the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) embarked on an outreach programme to Benue State on Thursday, 26 June, 2025.
This initiative aimed to alleviate the suffering of residents affected by recent attacks.

Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa in her visit to Yelewata Community, Benue State, in her remarks stated “You are not alone in this darkness, We stand with you, and we will walk with you through the journey of healing and recovery.”

The outreach featured free medical consultations, providing medication for various health conditions, as well as the distribution of essential relief items such as bags of rice, garri, mosquito nets, purity packs, fruits among other items.

The second part of the initiative was to extend support to displaced residents sheltering at the Makurdi International Market where they are catered for by the United Nations humanitarian agencies while the third part of the outreach was to the victims undergoing treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital. The President DEPOWA gave words of encouragement and offered relief items to the victims.

Rear Admiral Olusoya Bankole, Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to peace and healing, reassuring them that they are not forgotten. He reminded those affected that the military is dedicated to protecting and supporting lives and properties.

Present at the event were Officers and Men from Headquarters Operation Whirl stroke, Traditional leaders, Heads of Humanitarian agencies among others.