By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of personnel and their families as he commissions newly constructed accommodation for soldiers in Abuja.
Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu in a statement disclosed that the COAS made the reaffirmation on Monday, 17 March 2025, while addressing a gathering at the commissioning ceremony of Soldiers’ Quarters christened “Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja Model Corporal and Below Quarters” in Mambilla Barracks Extension, Abuja.
Speaking further, General Oluyede restated his resolve to vigorously tackle the accommodation challenge in the NA by ensuring that every soldier has access to decent and conducive accommodation, as their well-being and that of their families is paramount to his administration.
He reiterated that the NA under his watch places premium on troops’ welfare and urged them to reciprocate by taking full charge of their responsibilities, uphold professionalism, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the Nigerian Army.
Earlier, the Chief of Military Intelligence CMI (Army), Major General Thompson Ugiagbe, expressed gratitude to the COAS for his visionary leadership and support in actualizing the project.
He disclosed that the project is in line with the COAS’ Soldier-First mantra, adding that it is crucial to motivate subordinates under command by providing conducive living and working environment as well as other incentives to support them.
Further more, the CMI emphasized that the strength of the NA lies in the dedication, resilience, and wellbeing of its troops and not solely on weaponry. He pointed out that ensuring soldiers’ welfare is not only a duty but also a moral obligation.
Highlights of the event is the launching of a special edition of NAIC ACORN Magazine, presentation of keys to the beneficiaries of the new accommodation, a guided tour of the facility and planting of trees to commemorate the event.
Other dignitaries who witnessed the event were the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye, Director General Defence Research and Development Bureau, Major General Emmanuel Ndagi, Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters, former Directors and Chiefs of Military Intelligence amongst others.
