In a bid to strengthen emergency response capacity and enhance the welfare of troops, the Nigerian Army Headquarters 3 Division has conducted a comprehensive basic life-saving training program for its personnel.
The training, organized by the 3 Division Medical Services and Hospital (3 DMSH), focused on equipping soldiers with vital resuscitation skills, with particular emphasis on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) — a critical life-saving technique used during cardiac emergencies.
Over 50 personnel from various formations within Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, participated in the program, reflecting the Division’s commitment to health, safety, and readiness in military operations.
Declaring the training open, Commander of 3 DMSH, Brigadier General Augustine Omogbethai, stressed the importance of preparedness for emergencies, noting that CPR could make the difference between life and death.
“CPR is not just a skill; it is a vital lifeline that dramatically increases the chances of survival for anyone experiencing a cardiac arrest,” he said.
“By disseminating these essential skills, we are ensuring that our personnel can respond swiftly and decisively during emergencies.”
The training covered key areas, including the causes and warning signs of heart attacks, as well as immediate actions to take when confronted with an unresponsive individual with no pulse or breathing.
During the practical sessions, soldiers were given hands-on experience, practicing CPR techniques on manikins under the close supervision of medical professionals.
Brig Gen Omogbethai also used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of healthy living, advising soldiers to adopt better lifestyle habits and avoid illicit substances.
“Maintaining good health is not just for the individual soldier but also for the collective safety and effectiveness of the unit,” he added.
The initiative, approved by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Major General EF Oyinlola, forms part of broader efforts by the Nigerian Army to prioritize troop welfare and operational readiness.
As part of the program, participants were provided with vital emergency contact information. Plans are underway to extend the training to families of personnel within the cantonment, fostering a wider culture of safety and preparedness.
This effort underscores the Division’s proactive approach to safeguarding lives both within and beyond the military community.