Kaduna:The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, unveiled 30 family accommodation units at Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna, as part of efforts to improve the welfare of Nigerian Army personnel and their families.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the accommodation consists of two blocks of two-bedroom family quarters designated for Senior Non Commission Officers (SNCOs). Lt.-Gen. Shaibu emphasized that providing decent accommodation is crucial for personnel welfare and effective administration, which aligns with his command philosophy.
He noted that the wellbeing of soldiers and their families directly affects morale, motivation, and operational effectiveness. The expansion of the Nigerian Army’s force structure and operational reach necessitates such interventions, highlighting the importance of matching the Army’s growth with investments in infrastructure and welfare facilities.
Ribadu Cantonment houses several Nigerian Army establishments, and the new housing units aim to alleviate pressure on existing accommodations. Shaibu encouraged beneficiaries to maintain the facilities properly, ensuring cleanliness and upkeep.
He also mentioned ongoing accommodation projects in various barracks and cantonments nationwide, aimed at updating aging infrastructure and providing additional facilities. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support in enhancing the welfare and living conditions of Army personnel.
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, commended Lt.-Gen. Shaibu for facilitating the project. Wase described the commissioning of the quarters as a significant milestone in the Army’s efforts to improve living standards and promote regimental pride. He noted that decent accommodation boosts troops’ morale, enabling them to focus on their constitutional duties.
Wase highlighted accommodation challenges across formations and units, stating that the intervention would provide relief to personnel and their families. He urged beneficiaries to take ownership of the facilities and maintain them well. He further appreciated the technical team and contributors to the project’s successful completion and pledged the division’s commitment to fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.