By Helen Udo.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, commissioned 110 new family housing units for Corporals and below, as well as Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs), at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment as part of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving troops’ welfare.
Speaking at the commissioning, the COAS said the project reflects the Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, stressing that decent accommodation enhances the morale, commitment and operational readiness of personnel by providing a conducive environment for them and their families.
This was contained in a statement issued by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, in Abuja.
He noted that quality housing is essential to ensuring soldiers remain focused on their duties, adding that investing in the welfare of personnel is critical to building a professional, motivated and combat-ready Army.
The housing project, executed by the Directorate of Procurement (Army), comprises 52 buildings in 21 blocks with 10 modern architectural designs. It includes one- and two-bedroom flats for 80 junior soldiers, alongside three-bedroom flats and twin houses for 30 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers.
Director of Procurement (Army), Major General Sadisu Yakasai, urged the beneficiaries to maintain the facilities properly, emphasizing that good maintenance would preserve the estate and ensure its long-term value.
Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General John Lar, commended the COAS for prioritising the welfare of junior personnel and encouraged the beneficiaries to treat the new estate as their own by protecting and maintaining it.
The commissioning underscores the Nigerian Army’s sustained investment in modern, functional and sustainable accommodation for its personnel, reaffirming its belief that the welfare of soldiers remains central to operational effectiveness and the successful discharge of the Army’s constitutional responsibilities.
