COAS Commissions 80 Affordable Housing Units for Soldiers in Jos, Reserves Homes for Wounded Personnel

By Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned 80 housing units under the Nigerian Army Affordable Home Ownership Scheme in Jos, Plateau State, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of personnel through improved housing and post-retirement security.

The commissioning ceremony, held on Tuesday, formed part of the Nigerian Army’s Soldier-First Culture initiative, which the COAS described as a critical pillar for strengthening operational effectiveness and improving the overall well-being of troops and their families.

Addressing officers, soldiers and stakeholders at the event, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu said the provision of quality and affordable housing remains a deliberate investment in the welfare, morale and long-term security of personnel who continue to make enormous sacrifices in defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He noted that ensuring soldiers have access to decent accommodation, particularly after retirement, would not only improve their quality of life but also enhance their confidence and commitment while in active service.

According to the Army Chief, personnel who are assured of a secure future are better motivated to discharge their constitutional responsibilities with professionalism and dedication.

“The welfare of our personnel and their families remains central to the actualisation of my command philosophy. A well-motivated and professionally fulfilled soldier is better positioned to deliver on the constitutional mandate of the Nigerian Army,” he said.

Shaibu disclosed that the 80 housing units commissioned in Jos are part of an ongoing nationwide housing programme aimed at expanding home ownership opportunities for military personnel.

He revealed that 60 housing units were delivered under the scheme last year, while another 120 units in Abuja and 40 units in Benin are scheduled for commissioning in the coming months.

The COAS said the continued expansion of the housing programme demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to improving the living standards and welfare administration of both serving and retired personnel.

In what observers described as a significant welfare initiative, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu announced that five per cent of the newly commissioned housing units have been specifically reserved for soldiers wounded in action.

He explained that the allocation is intended to honour personnel who sustained injuries while defending the nation and to recognise their courage, sacrifice and unwavering dedication to national security.

According to him, the gesture underscores the Nigerian Army’s enduring responsibility towards those who have paid a heavy price in the line of duty.

“Our wounded-in-action personnel have made extraordinary sacrifices in service to the nation. Reserving these housing units for them is a token of our gratitude and appreciation for their selfless service,” the COAS stated.

He urged beneficiaries of the scheme to maintain the facilities and uphold the values associated with responsible home ownership, describing the houses as symbols of stability, dignity and lasting reward for years of dedicated military service.

The Affordable Home Ownership Scheme forms part of the Nigerian Army’s broader welfare reforms aimed at boosting personnel morale, improving retention, and ensuring that soldiers enjoy a secure and dignified life both during and after their careers in service to the nation.