COAS Commissions 80 Housing Units in Jos, Reaffirms Commitment to Soldier-First Welfare Policy

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned 80 housing units under the Nigerian Army Affordable Home Ownership Scheme in Jos, Plateau State, as part of efforts to strengthen personnel welfare and enhance operational effectiveness.

The initiative, according to the Nigerian Army, reflects the COAS’s commitment to the Soldier-First Culture, which places the welfare, morale and professional fulfilment of troops at the centre of military leadership.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Lieutenant General Shaibu said providing quality and affordable housing for soldiers and their families was a deliberate investment in sustaining the morale and combat readiness of personnel who continue to make sacrifices in defence of Nigeria.

The COAS, according to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, stressed that the welfare of troops remained a major pillar of his command philosophy, noting that motivated and fulfilled soldiers are better positioned to effectively discharge the constitutional responsibilities of the Nigerian Army.

General Shaibu disclosed that the Jos housing project was part of a broader welfare programme, revealing that 60 housing units had been delivered in the previous year, while additional projects involving 120 units in Abuja and 40 units in Benin are expected to be commissioned.

In recognition of the sacrifices of troops who sustained injuries while serving the nation, the COAS announced that five percent of the newly completed housing units had been allocated to soldiers wounded in action.

He described the gesture as a token of appreciation to gallant personnel whose bravery and dedication have contributed significantly to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty, peace and security.

The Army Chief urged beneficiaries to maintain the facilities, describing home ownership as a symbol of stability, responsibility and a lasting reward for commitment and service to the nation.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Post-Service Housing Development Limited, Major General Isaiah Alison, commended the COAS for prioritising the welfare of soldiers and assured that more housing projects were being developed to cater for additional personnel across the country.

During the visit, Lieutenant General Shaibu also commissioned newly completed trainee hostels and convenience facilities at the 3 Division Training School, Jos, further demonstrating the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving living conditions, strengthening institutional capacity and enhancing operational readiness.

The Army leadership said the continued investment in personnel welfare remains a key strategy towards building a more motivated force capable of achieving national security objectives.