COAS unveils upgraded quarters for frontline soldiers

From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Waidi Shaibu, has unveiled remodelled and upgraded residential quarters for junior personnel of the Nigerian Army deployed to the frontline of counter-terrorism operations.

Shaibu unveiled the quarters at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, on Thursday as part of ongoing efforts to provide decent accommodation for soldiers and improve their welfare and operational performance.

He said the Nigerian Army could not achieve professional excellence without providing decent and standard accommodation for its personnel.

Represented by the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force, North-East, Maj-Gen Ibikunle Ajose, the COAS said the dilapidated structures had been remodelled and upgraded to provide befitting accommodation for soldiers of the rank of corporal and below, as well as their families.

“This provides secure and decent accommodation equipped with modern facilities. The Nigerian Army is committed to providing barracks built to modern international standards,” he said.

Shaibu disclosed that the Army was also undertaking other housing projects, including the construction of quarters to accommodate 4,000 families.

He urged the occupants to maintain the facilities properly, observe discipline and ensure a clean environment.

The COAS commended President Bola Tinubu for his support to the Nigerian Army, noting that the support covered the expansion of the force and improved welfare for personnel, among other areas.

Also speaking, the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC), 7 Division, Brig-Gen Solomon Diwa, said the upgraded quarters were designed to improve the welfare and working conditions of personnel.

He described the initiative as particularly important for soldiers of the rank of corporal and below, urging the occupants to embrace a strong maintenance culture to ensure the facilities remained in good condition.