The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, Lagos, Mrs Margaret Ochalla, on Friday provided relief to indigent patients in Lagos by settling their outstanding medical bills.
Ochalla led members of her management team on a humanitarian outreach to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute-Metta, and the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, where she paid the hospital bills of a newborn awaiting surgery, as well as those of other patients unable to afford medical treatment.
The outreach was aimed at identifying with patients, particularly the indigent, and easing the challenges they face during hospitalisation.
In addition to clearing medical bills, the AIG and her team donated essential gift items to patients, bringing renewed hope and relief to several families.
Speaking during the visit, Ochalla said the responsibilities of the Nigeria Police Force go beyond investigation and crime control, noting that the gesture reflected the Force’s commitment to serving citizens beyond traditional law enforcement duties.
She explained that the initiative was aimed at fostering goodwill, strengthening public confidence, and demonstrating that the Nigeria Police Force is genuinely concerned about the welfare of every Nigerian.
“The initiative is aimed at fostering goodwill, strengthening public confidence, and demonstrating that the Nigeria Police Force is genuinely concerned about the welfare of every Nigerian,” she said.
Ochalla noted that effective policing is rooted in humanity, compassion, and service to the people, stressing the need for the Police to continually seek ways to positively impact citizens’ lives while building trust and maintaining respectful relationships with communities.
The police boss emphasised that the Police Force remains committed to compassion and partnership with the public, describing the Police as the friend of the community.
The AIG also expressed appreciation to medical personnel in the facilities for their dedication and commitment to patients receiving treatment in various wards.
According to her, the humanitarian outreach aligns with the mission and vision of the Inspector-General of Police, which emphasise community engagement, professionalism, empathy, and the strengthening of public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
Management and staff of FMC Ebute-Metta and Lagos Island Maternity Hospital expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful and a clear demonstration of the Police Force’s commitment to community service beyond its statutory responsibilities.
Beneficiaries of the outreach also expressed excitement and gratitude, describing the visit as historic and memorable.
Ochalla reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to initiatives that foster public trust, enhance cooperation, and contribute to building a safer and more compassionate society.
