A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Nurse Nagipekoi Aaron Ali, has renovated and redesigned the paediatric ward of the 17 Brigade Medical Centre in Katsina to create a more child-friendly healthcare environment.
The upgraded facility was inaugurated on Saturday by the Commander of the 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ishaya Ibrahim.
Ali, an indigene of Adamawa State serving at the medical centre, said the initiative was designed to make hospital visits less intimidating for children by creating a welcoming and reassuring atmosphere.
She explained that the ward was redesigned with colourful decorations, educational illustrations and vibrant artwork to help reduce fear and anxiety among young patients while supporting their emotional wellbeing.
According to her, hospitals should provide not only quality medical care but also environments that promote healing, hope and comfort.
Quoting Florence Nightingale, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing, Ali said: “The very first requirement in a hospital is that it should do the sick no harm.”
She noted that creating a positive healthcare environment could contribute significantly to children’s recovery and improve their overall experience during treatment.
Ali holds a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree from Garden City University College, Kumasi, Ghana, and a Master’s degree in Public Health from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Speaking at the inauguration, Brigadier General Ibrahim commended the corps member for her creativity, compassion and commitment to improving healthcare services at the medical centre.
He described the project as an example of selfless service and innovation that complements the Nigerian Army’s efforts to enhance patient care.
The brigade commander also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to supporting impactful initiatives by NYSC members serving in its formations, noting that such interventions would further strengthen civil-military relations.
Stakeholders at the event described the project as a significant contribution to paediatric healthcare at the medical centre.
