Abuja: The National Defence College Officers’ Wives Association (NDCOWA) has intensified efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel and their families with the inauguration of key infrastructure projects across camps and college premises in Abuja. These initiatives aim to enhance living conditions and provide sustainable water access for officers, men, and civilian staff residing within these communities.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the projects included a 3,000-litre solar-powered borehole at Ushafa Barracks, solar boreholes at Kwara Drive and Jos in Gwarimpa, and the renovation of a kitchen facility within the college premises. Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of NDCOWA, Hajia Hauwa Ahmed, mentioned that these initiatives were in response to requests from personnel and residents aimed at addressing pressing welfare needs. Ahmed highlighted that the kitchen renovation was carried out after observing that several facilities and appliances were in poor condition, affecting its functionality.
She further explained that the borehole project was conceived following complaints from residents, particularly women, who had to purchase water for domestic use despite caring for young children. ‘Access to clean and reliable water is a basic necessity. We are grateful that the Commandant fulfilled his promise to improve these facilities for the benefit of the community,’ she said. Although initial plans were to sink two boreholes, hydrogeological surveys indicated water could not be accessed at one of the proposed locations.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Martina Kashim, Special Guest of Honour, described the projects as impactful interventions that directly enhanced the living conditions of personnel and their families. She emphasized that the strength of the Armed Forces is closely tied to the welfare and stability of the home front, stressing that improved living conditions would enable personnel to concentrate better on their professional responsibilities.
The Vicar of Trinity Military Protestant Church, Capt. (Rev.) James Mallo Saidu, commended the Commandant of the NDC for prioritizing welfare projects, including the earlier renovation of the chapel at the college headquarters. He expressed gratitude to God and the college leadership for transforming what started as a prayer point into a reality.
The event formed part of a broader welfare drive by the NDC leadership to enhance infrastructure and support systems within military communities in the Federal Capital Territory.