The Nigerian Army has presented house keys and commissioned the first phase of over 100 units of two bedrooms apartments of Affordable Home Ownership Options for All to 400 soldiers, both serving and wounded personnel at Idu Abuja.
Presenting keys to beneficiaries, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, said this scheme is a pilot project in an integrated welfare scheme aimed at alleviating the actual soldier's face in securing personal accommodation for post-service life.
General Musa who was the Special Guest of Honour at the Commissioning congratulated the Nigerian Army for making the historic commissioning a reality. He commended and deeply appreciate the efforts of all Nigerian Army Personnel in securing the country.
This project is a true testament to the untiring efforts of the Late Chief of Army Staff,Lt Gen TA Lagbaja, who had continuously advanced the welfare of the Nigerian Army Personnel. I am happy that his successor,Lt Gen OO Oluyede has promised to continue the scheme, ensuring that more houses will be built for interested subscribers.
The importance of owning a decent shelter in a soldiers' life cannot be overstated as it promises stability, security and peace of mind,enabling them to focus fully on their duties.
The CDS encouraged the Nigerian Army to embark on more projects of this kind in the FCT and across other parts of the country, as they will foster overall development,enhance security and bring socio-economic benefits to the residents, noting that such initiatives not only improve the welfare of personnel but also strengthen the bond between the military and the civilian population.
By prioritizing infrastructure and development, the Nigerian Army continues to play a pivotal role in nation building.
General Musa recognized and thank the governors of Akwa Ibom and Edo State for allocating land in their states for the scheme.I also want to on behalf of the Nigerian Army solicit all other governors to allocate land to the Nigerian Army to build houses for soldiers as land in Abuja will not be sufficient to build for all the personnel.
In his remarks, Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede as part of efforts to address accommodation deficits, said he has directed the speedy completion of ongoing office and residential projects, with plans to initiate new ones.
He pointed out that he will stretch his efforts to his predecessors in drastically reducing the accommodation deficiencies in the Nigerian Army, he gifted 20 wounded soldiers free 2 bedroom apartment.
He also noted that he has directed that all ongoing office and expenditure accommodation projects in the Nigerian Army be completed speedily and allocated to deserving personnel.
He said while new ones are to be initiated to alleviate the shortfall, I look forward to establishing a soldier-first cult across the force by ensuring the proper attention is paid to soldiers' welfare, acknowledging their crucial role as the foundation of the Nigerian Army's strength, operational readiness, and mission success.
The Chief of Army staff, Lt Gen Oluyede reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to addressing security challenges while prioritizing the welfare of soldiers.
