By Helen Udo.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has commissioned a newly constructed 20-unit one-bedroom staff accommodation built by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Nyanya, Abuja, as part of efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel.
The project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places priority on addressing accommodation shortages and enhancing the living conditions of personnel of the Armed Forces.
The statement was signed by Queeneth Iheoma Hart (CIO), for the Director of Information and Public Relations.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Matawalle described decent accommodation as a fundamental requirement for military personnel, stressing that quality housing directly contributes to improved morale, operational efficiency and commitment to duty.
He noted that a comfortable home is not a luxury but a necessity, adding that it provides peace of mind for officers and men, enabling them to focus on their responsibilities in safeguarding the nation.
The Minister commended the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, for initiating the project, describing it as a commendable achievement that reflects the Agency’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel.
Matawalle also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces, particularly through initiatives aimed at improving personnel welfare and strengthening operational effectiveness.
As the supervising Minister of the Defence Intelligence Agency, he assured the Agency of the Ministry’s continued support in advancing its mandate and enhancing national security.
The Minister urged beneficiaries of the newly commissioned accommodation to maintain the facility properly, emphasizing that responsible use would preserve the building for future occupants.
Following the commissioning, Matawalle officially unveiled the accommodation by cutting the ceremonial tape before inspecting the newly remodelled facility.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, thanked the Minister for personally commissioning the project, describing his presence as a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to the welfare of DIA personnel.
Undiandeye also appreciated President Tinubu for his continued support to the Defence Intelligence Agency and reaffirmed the loyalty and dedication of the Agency’s management and personnel to protecting Nigeria’s national security.
The ceremony was attended by the Coordinator of the Defence Intelligence Agency Officers’ Wives Association, Mrs. Jane Undiandeye, Directors of the Agency, senior military and civilian officials, Regimental Sergeant Majors, soldiers, and other members of the Agency.
