The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned 110 newly constructed family housing units for Corporals and below as well as Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving the welfare of its personnel.
The housing estate was inaugurated on Tuesday as part of efforts to provide decent accommodation for soldiers and their families.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu said the project reflects the Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, stressing that providing quality housing would boost the morale, commitment and operational readiness of troops.
“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,” the Army Chief said.
He added that investing in the welfare of soldiers and their families remains critical to building a stronger and more effective Nigerian Army capable of discharging its constitutional responsibilities.
The project, executed by the Directorate of Procurement (Army), comprises 52 buildings spread across 21 blocks and built in 10 modern architectural designs. It features one- and two-bedroom flats for 80 junior soldiers, alongside three-bedroom flats and twin houses for 30 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. Each housing unit is equipped with a living room, kitchen, bedroom(s) and sanitary facilities.
Earlier, the Director of Procurement (Army), Major General Sadisu Yakasai, urged beneficiaries to maintain the facilities and ensure the estate remains in good condition for years to come.
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 new estate as their own and safeguard the facilities.
The commissioning highlights the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to provide modern, functional and sustainable accommodation for its personnel as part of broader initiatives to enhance welfare and strengthen operational effectiveness.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
