Army chief Waidi Shaibu has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to troops’ welfare by inaugurating 100 housing units for soldiers at Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna.

Mr Shaibu inaugurated the newly constructed accommodation, comprising 10 blocks of 10 family units for personnel of the rank of corporal and below, at Kafanchan Barracks, Jaji, on Thursday.

He said the project marked a significant milestone in his commitment to transforming the Nigerian Army through improved welfare, enhanced professionalism and better living conditions for personnel.

The COAS said no army could achieve operational excellence if its administrative foundation was weak or its personnel were accommodated in substandard housing.

According to him, the relationship between living standards, working environments and operational capability is direct and undeniable.

“Soldiers who are well housed, whose families are secured in decent accommodation, will inevitably perform their duties with greater focus, pride and efficiency,” he said.

Mr Shaibu said the army was committed to providing dignified accommodation built to modern architectural standards, with access to clean water, reliable electricity, security and a healthy living environment. He described the housing units as investments in human capital, which he identified as the army’s most valuable operational asset.

He urged the beneficiaries to maintain the facilities properly, stressing that their longevity would depend on the discipline with which they were managed, and charged commanders to ensure accountability in maintaining the newly commissioned facilities to prevent their deterioration.

Mr Shaibu further urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate the improved living conditions with greater commitment, administrative readiness and dedication to ongoing military operations.

(NAN)