The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Bamidele Peter Koughna, has commissioned a newly constructed 10-unit Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) Quarters at the Nigerian Army Cantonment, Headquarters 1 Brigade, Gusau, Zamfara State, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving troop welfare.
The commissioning, held on Tuesday, formed part of ongoing efforts to enhance the living conditions of soldiers in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) Soldiers First Command Philosophy.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Yusuf Mohammed, the accommodation project was initiated and executed by the Commander, 1 Brigade, Brigadier General M. Jimoh, to provide quality housing for senior non-commissioned officers and their families.
Speaking during the ceremony, Major General Koughna commended Brigadier General Jimoh for his foresight and commitment to personnel welfare, describing the project as a practical demonstration of the COAS’ vision of creating an enabling environment for soldiers to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
He stressed that decent accommodation remains a critical component of troop welfare, noting that improved living conditions boost morale, strengthen unit cohesion, and enhance operational readiness. The GOC also urged the beneficiaries to maintain the facility to ensure its longevity.
Earlier, Brigadier General Jimoh said the project was conceived in recognition of the vital role played by senior non-commissioned officers in the Nigerian Army. He explained that the initiative was inspired by the GOC’s emphasis on troop welfare and force protection, which aligns with the broader vision of the Chief of Army Staff.
He expressed optimism that the new quarters would improve the standard of living of the beneficiaries while fostering greater commitment, professionalism, and a stronger sense of belonging among personnel.
The completion of the project underscores the commitment of Headquarters 1 Brigade and Headquarters 8 Division to enhancing the welfare, efficiency, and operational effectiveness of troops.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, including Major General U.G. Ogeleka, Major General S.A. Emmanuel, Brigadier General N. Mbaka, Principal Staff Officers from the Theatre Command and Headquarters 1 Brigade, soldiers, and invited guests.
Highlights of the event included a project brief by the site supervisor, the symbolic commissioning of the building, presentation of keys to beneficiaries, exchange of plaques, and group photographs.
