Defence
THE Nigerian Army on Friday inaugurated different housing projects in 15 Field Engineers Regiments, Topo, Badagry and 243 Battalion Ibereko, Badagry to provide decent and adequate accommodation for their personnel.
Speaking shortly before the inauguration, the Commander Corp of Signals, Maj. Gen. Mohammed Abdullahi who represented the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen. Waheed Shaibu, said the welfare of troops is central to operational effectiveness, morale and overall productivity.
Abdullahi said the project would significantly improve the living conditions of their personnel.
“It is therefore gratifying to witness the completion of these accommodation projects comprising 4 × Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Quarters and 4 × Single Officers Quarters
“These projects were initiated in response to the accommodation deficit within the barracks.
“I also understand that the existing buildings, originally designed as one-bedroom and parlour apartments, had deteriorated considerably over the years, making them unsuitable for habitation.
“Consequently, it became necessary to undertake extensive remodeling to convert them into more functional two-bedroom and parlour apartments capable of
meeting contemporary accommodation needs.
“I commend the foresight of the Army Headquarters in approving this intervention and ensuring its implementation through the Directorate of Procurement,” he said.
He said the projects were more than mere structures, adding that they were investments in the welfare and well-being of officers and soldiers.
“Comfortable accommodation contributes immenselv to personnel satisfaction, family stability and enhanced focus on assigned responsibilities.
“As engineers and combat support personnel, the officers and soldiers of this Regiment play critical roles in supporting military operations and national development.
” It is therefore imperative that they are provided with a conducive environment that enables them to perform optimally,” he said.
Abdullahi assured all personnel on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff that the Nigerian Army would continue to prioritise projects that directly impact their welfare.
“We remain committed to improving barracks infrastructure, enhancing living standards and providing facilities that will strengthen the morale and efficiency of our troops in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“While appreciating the efforts that led to the completion of these projects, I urge the beneficiaries and all personnel of the Regiment to cultivate a strong maintenance culture.
“The longevity and sustainability of these facilities depend on our collective commitment to preserving them,” he said.
He charged them to ensure that the structures were properly maintained and protected for the benefit of current and future generations of personnel.
Abdullahi expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, for his unflinching support and strategic guidance as well as approving the resources for executing this project.
He also on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff appreciated the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu, for his continuous support to the Nigerian Army.
Also speaking, Major General Adebayo Babalola, General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, said the Division had been very lucky to benefit from strategic direction and welfare package of COAS.
Babalola said that in the area of responsibility, series of projects, construction works that has direct impact in the life of soldiers and there families were going on.
He urged the families to make good use of the project so that when the Chief of Army Staff gets feed back on the one had done, he would be encouraged to do more for them.
In his opening remarks, the Commanding Officer, 15 Field Engineer Regiment, Lt. Col. Augustine Amangele said
the inauguration marks a significant milestone in their collective pursuit of enhancing the welfare of officers, soldiers and their families within the barracks community.
According to the CO, the renovation of this facilities addresses a long standing challenge faced by our personnel which is inadequate and poor state of building within the barracks.
“We are deeply honoured by the gracious presence of our Special Guest of Honour, the Chief of Army Staff, whose leadership, vision and unwavering commitment to the welfare of military personnel and their families continue to inspire us.
“We are truly grateful for your steadfast support, numerous welfare initiatives, and dedication to improving the living conditions of soldiers and their families across the nation.
“We also extend our profound appreciation to the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, whose generosity, dedication, invaluable guidance and personal sacrifice made this dream a reality.
“The construction of these facilities stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the growth, development and welfare of our personnel.
“We are sincerely grateful for his encouragement, leadership and support throughout the execution of this project,” he said.
F.O
Tags: Army Badagry Barracks Housing Projects