Army Chief Shaibu Commissions New Troop Housing, Reaffirms 'Soldier First' Welfare Policy

Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to prioritising the welfare of its personnel, describing decent accommodation as a critical component of building a professional, resilient and combat-ready force.

Shaibu made the remarks on Friday while commissioning newly constructed accommodation blocks for soldiers at the 6 Division Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The project, he said, forms part of the Army's "Soldier First" initiative, which places the welfare and well-being of personnel at the centre of its operational and institutional reforms.

Addressing officers and soldiers during the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff said providing secure, comfortable and conducive accommodation for military personnel and their families remains a strategic priority.

According to him, improved living conditions directly contribute to higher morale, greater operational readiness and more efficient discharge of the Army's constitutional responsibilities.

"Providing decent, secure and conducive accommodation for our personnel and their families remains a strategic priority," Shaibu said.

He noted that investing in the welfare of soldiers is essential to maintaining an effective military capable of responding to Nigeria's evolving security challenges.

According to the Army chief, a well-motivated and adequately supported soldier is better equipped to safeguard Nigeria's territorial integrity and defend the country's national interests.

Shaibu said the Army would continue investing in welfare programmes that improve the quality of life of personnel while strengthening professionalism across the service.

He described personnel welfare as a critical pillar of a more resilient and combat-ready Nigerian Army.

The Chief of Army Staff also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for what he described as sustained support for the Nigerian Army.

According to him, the Federal Government's continued provision of resources has improved personnel welfare, enhanced operational effectiveness and strengthened the Army's capacity to fulfil its constitutional mandate.

The remarks were contained in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele.

Shaibu is in Rivers State as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which is being hosted in Port Harcourt.