Army boosts troop welfare with new housing, water project in Kaduna

The Nigerian Army has expanded efforts to improve the welfare of its personnel with the commissioning of new accommodation and a sustainable water facility in Kaduna.

At a ceremony held at Ribadu Cantonment, Kotoko Barracks, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shu’aibu, unveiled four blocks of residential buildings comprising 120 flats, alongside a 60,000-litre solar-powered borehole.

Represented by the Chief of Administration at Army Headquarters, Isa Abdullah, the army chief said the project aligns with the military’s “Soldier First” philosophy, which prioritises the welfare of troops and their families as a key driver of morale and operational effectiveness.

He noted that inadequate housing and limited access to basic amenities have long affected personnel in several barracks, making the new facilities a significant step toward improving living standards.

According to him, the housing units will help reduce accommodation pressure within the cantonment, while the solar-powered borehole is expected to provide a reliable and sustainable water supply.

Shu’aibu described the initiative as part of a broader welfare programme aimed at strengthening the bond between leadership and rank-and-file soldiers, while also enhancing readiness for duty.

He also acknowledged the role of the General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Abubakar Wase, in facilitating the project’s completion.

The army chief revealed that the buildings were previously in poor condition, with some uninhabitable due to structural defects, but have now been renovated to meet acceptable standards.

He urged beneficiaries to maintain the facilities, warning against misuse and vandalism, and stressing that proper upkeep would encourage further investment in similar projects.

Soldiers who reacted to the development commended the army leadership, saying the initiative would ease accommodation challenges and improve overall welfare.

The project reflects a growing focus within the Nigerian Army on balancing operational duties with the well-being of personnel, recognising that improved living conditions directly contribute to better performance in demanding environments.