…as COAS Shaibu describes project as a testament to the Army’s drive for enduring welfare and institutional advancement
By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has commissioned an ultra-modern shopping complex developed by Post-Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) in Asokoro, Abuja, in a move aimed at further strengthening the welfare of serving and retired personnel while promoting economic activity within military estates.
The commissioning ceremony, held on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, was performed by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, who described the project as a practical demonstration of the Army’s enduring commitment to the holistic welfare of its personnel and the creation of a conducive living environment within military communities.
Addressing dignitaries, senior military officers, partners and other stakeholders at the event, the COAS said the shopping complex aligns with the Nigerian Army’s deliberate policies on prudent resource management and targeted infrastructure development, which are geared towards improving the quality of life of personnel, both in service and in retirement.
He explained that the complex is strategically designed to serve residents of adjoining Army barracks, improve access to essential goods and services, and stimulate legitimate commercial activities within Nigerian Army estates and their host communities.
“This shopping complex is intended to serve residents of adjoining Army barracks, improve service delivery and stimulate legitimate economic activity within Nigerian Army estates and host communities. It reflects our resolve to ensure that welfare initiatives are not only well intentioned, but also properly managed, supervised and sustained,” the COAS said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed confidence that the facility would develop into a vibrant commercial hub capable of supporting small businesses, encouraging local enterprise and creating employment opportunities.
“It is our expectation that this complex will serve not only as a commercial hub but also as a catalyst for local enterprise and employment generation. I will therefore continue to support initiatives that enhance institutional resilience and align the Nigerian Army with broader national development objectives,” he added.
The Army Chief emphasised that while quality construction is important, the long-term value of infrastructure depends largely on effective management, strict adherence to regulations and responsible use by stakeholders.
“I am particularly pleased with the safety and security features incorporated into this complex. However, infrastructure alone does not guarantee safety. The safety and sustainability of this facility will depend largely on effective management, strict compliance with regulations and responsible use by all stakeholders,” he stated.
He therefore urged allottees and users of the complex to remain safety-conscious and take collective responsibility for protecting lives and property.
The COAS commended the Management and Staff of Post-Service Housing Development Limited, under the leadership of the immediate past and current Managing Directors, for their professionalism and dedication in delivering the project, urging them to sustain the momentum while ensuring transparency, accountability, timely execution and effective supervision of projects.
He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, noting that the successful execution of welfare-oriented projects such as this is made possible by the enabling environment created by the Federal Government.
“The Nigerian Army remains deeply appreciative of Mr President’s commitment to institutional reform, prudent governance and the welfare of service personnel in the pursuit of a secure and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PHDL, Major General Isaiah Allison, said the commissioning represents a testament to purposeful development, institutional growth and sustainable investment within the Armed Forces community.
He thanked the PHDL Board of Directors for their strategic guidance and unwavering support, while also acknowledging the immediate past Managing Director/CEO, Major General J. D. O’Malley, under whose tenure the project was initiated.
Major General Allison disclosed that since assuming office on 3 February 2025, management sustained the project’s momentum with a focus on operational efficiency, safety and user experience.
He revealed that a direct access route from the expressway into the complex was created to ensure ease of entry and exit for shoppers and visitors.
To ensure effective facility management, he said a professional facility manager has been engaged to oversee security, cleanliness and general operations.
The PHDL Managing Director disclosed that the complex is equipped with comprehensive security and safety infrastructure, including fully operational CCTV cameras, fire detection systems and portable fire extinguishers, making the facility fully fire-ready.
He gave special recognition to Commander Christine Allison, a member of the 41st Regular Course, who executed the installation of the fire safety system.
Major General Allison further revealed that a 750 KVA transformer and a 500 KVA generator have been installed to provide a centralised power supply, eliminating the proliferation of private generators and significantly reducing fire hazards within the complex. Power costs, he added, will be equitably shared among shop occupants.
He said adequate parking space has been provided, while tricycle and taxi operators earlier occupying the frontage have been relocated, with a dedicated taxi and tricycle park currently under construction behind the complex.
In addition, he disclosed that a public convenience facility is being constructed, while shop locator directories have been installed on the ground, first and second floors to guide visitors.
Major General Allison announced that another PHDL shopping complex in Warri will be commissioned shortly, reflecting the company’s expansion drive.
He also informed shop owners that due to shop mergers carried out to enhance functionality, some shop numbers may differ from initial allocations, but ownership remains unchanged. New allocation letters reflecting updated numbering, he said, will be issued on 4 February, alongside formal handover of shop keys.
The PHDL Managing Director commended the contractor, Leafcrest Investment Services Limited, for delivering the project to a high standard, as confirmed by quality control consultants’ reports, and appreciated the Managing Director of Costco Pharmacy for donating additional souvenirs.
In his vote of thanks, Lieutenant Colonel Illiya, Deputy Managing Director of Post Housing Development Limited (PHDL), expressed deep appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his visionary leadership and consistent support, which made the successful completion of the project possible. He also thanked the Board and Management of PHDL, sister Services, partners, contractors and all stakeholders for their professionalism, cooperation and dedication.
He noted that the project reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to welfare, institutional growth and sustainable development, while assuring that PHDL will continue to pursue initiatives that positively impact personnel and their families.
He concluded by thanking all distinguished guests for honouring the invitation and contributing to the success of the ceremony
The commissioning of the PHDL Shopping Complex in Asokoro underscores the Nigerian Army’s continued focus on integrating welfare, infrastructure development and economic sustainability, while reinforcing its commitment to improving the living standards of its personnel and contributing to national development.
Highlights of event includes the official commissioning of the PHDL shopping complex, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs
