By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has inaugurated a series of newly completed infrastructural projects at the 401 Special Forces Brigade, Joe Akaahan Cantonment, Makurdi, Benue State, in a move aimed at upgrading facilities and improving the welfare of Nigerian Army personnel.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, General Oluyede reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to enhancing the living and working conditions of troops and their families. He noted that the projects would not only raise the standard of living within the cantonment but also improve operational efficiency and morale.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to providing conducive working and living environments for its officers, soldiers, and their families. These projects will significantly enhance operational efficiency, boost morale, and improve the overall quality of life within this cantonment,” the COAS stated.
Among the commissioned projects were the remodelled Joint Officers’ Mess, Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess, and the Jumpers’ Club. Also inaugurated were the newly constructed Regimental Sergeant Major’s residence and transit accommodation for personnel, facilities designed to meet both social and operational needs of the troops. The COAS urged beneficiaries to take proper care of the facilities, stressing that their maintenance was essential to sustaining the gains achieved.
The Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father (Dr.) Hyacinth Alia, was represented at the ceremony by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, who commended the Nigerian Army’s commitment to welfare and infrastructure development. The event was also attended by senior military officers, members of the Benue State Executive Council, and heads of security agencies in the state.
