The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. Muhammed Wase, has attributed the ongoing transformation of infrastructure across the Division to the unwavering support of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu.
Speaking through the Chief of Staff of the Division, Brig.-Gen. Timothy Opurum, during an interaction with defence correspondents in Kaduna, Wase said the extensive infrastructure renewal programme has significantly improved troop welfare, accommodation, education, worship facilities and operational effectiveness.
According to him, the intervention aligns with the COAS’ “Soldier First” philosophy, which prioritises the welfare, morale and wellbeing of troops as essential components of military effectiveness.
He disclosed that upon assumption of command, the Division inherited numerous dilapidated structures requiring urgent attention. However, with support from Army Headquarters and prudent resource management, the Division embarked on an aggressive programme of renovation, rehabilitation and construction.
“The support from the Chief of Army Staff has been tremendous. His commitment to improving troops’ welfare has enabled us to undertake several projects that are directly impacting the lives of our personnel and their families,” Wase said.
One of the Division’s key achievements, he noted, was the rehabilitation of abandoned accommodation blocks that had become uninhabitable over the years. Although approval was initially granted for the renovation of four blocks, the Division successfully expanded the project to six blocks through cost-saving measures and prudent financial management.
The GOC said the upgraded facilities have substantially increased housing availability for officers and soldiers within the cantonment.
To complement the housing projects, the Division installed more than 65,000 watts of solar-powered electricity infrastructure across renovated facilities, ensuring more reliable power supply and reducing dependence on the national grid.
He revealed that another major solar power project, currently about 50 per cent completed, is expected to further improve electricity supply and support operational activities once delivered.
Wase also highlighted the rehabilitation of several buildings damaged by severe weather conditions, including the replacement of roofs, ceilings and other structural components.
The Division, he added, renovated its main auditorium, transforming it into a modern conference and event centre capable of hosting military and inter-agency engagements.
As part of broader welfare initiatives, extensive renovation works were carried out on the Division’s major worship centres, including the Catholic Church, Protestant Church and Central Mosque, to provide conducive environments for spiritual activities.
“We believe welfare is not only about accommodation and feeding. Spiritual wellbeing is equally important. That is why attention was given to all worship centres within the Division,” he said.
The Division also established a modern cafeteria facility to improve feeding arrangements for personnel and is currently renovating its crèche and nursery school, a project which has reached about 70 per cent completion.
Beyond military facilities, Wase disclosed that the Division recently constructed and handed over a block of classrooms to a host community in Kaduna State as part of its civil-military cooperation efforts aimed at strengthening relations with local communities.
According to him, the infrastructural improvements are already boosting troop morale, discipline and operational efficiency, while new welfare initiatives, including recognition packages for retiring, redeployed and outstanding personnel, have further enhanced motivation among troops.
He commended the Chief of Army Staff for providing the resources and strategic guidance that have enabled the Division to simultaneously sustain counter-banditry operations and pursue infrastructure development.
Despite challenges such as logistics demands, mobility constraints and infrastructure deficits, Wase assured that additional accommodation, power and welfare projects are already in the pipeline.
He maintained that investment in troop welfare remains a critical force multiplier in modern military operations.
“When soldiers are well accommodated, properly cared for and adequately motivated, they perform better in operations. That is the philosophy driving these interventions, and we are grateful to the Chief of Army Staff for his unwavering support,” he said.
