Army Chief Commissions Houses For Soldiers…

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned 110 new family housing units for Corporals and below as well as Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Giri, Abuja.

Key Highlights

• COAS Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu commissioned 110 new family housing units at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, Abuja.
• The housing units are designed for Corporals and below as well as Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs).
• The project supports the Nigerian Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, prioritising personnel welfare and morale.
• Shaibu said decent accommodation is essential for improving soldiers’ motivation, focus and operational readiness.
• The project comprises 52 buildings across 21 blocks, featuring 10 modern architectural designs.
• 80 junior soldiers will occupy one- and two-bedroom flats, while 30 SNCOs will receive three-bedroom flats and twin houses.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday, the Army Chief said the project reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its “Soldier First” philosophy, stressing that decent accommodation is essential to boosting the welfare, morale and operational readiness of personnel.

According to Shaibu, soldiers who live in comfortable conditions with their families are better motivated, more focused and better prepared to carry out their duties.

“Decent accommodation is not a luxury. It is what keeps your morale high and your mind at rest so you can face your job squarely,” he said, adding that caring for soldiers and their families remains critical to building a stronger and more effective Army.

Read also:

The housing project, constructed by the Directorate of Procurement (Army), comprises 52 buildings spread across 21 blocks with 10 modern architectural designs. It includes one- and two-bedroom flats for 80 junior soldiers, alongside three-bedroom flats and twin houses for 30 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. Each unit is equipped with a living room, kitchen, bedroom(s) and toilet facilities.

Earlier, the Director of Procurement (Army), Major General Sadisu Yakasai, urged beneficiaries to maintain the facilities and keep the estate clean to ensure its longevity.

Also speaking, the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General John Lar, commended the Chief of Army Staff for prioritising the welfare of junior personnel. He encouraged the beneficiaries and their families to treat the estate as their own and safeguard the facilities.

The Army said the commissioning demonstrates its commitment to providing modern, functional and sustainable accommodation for personnel, reinforcing the belief that a motivated and well-cared-for soldier is essential to the effective discharge of the Army’s constitutional responsibilities.