Matawalle Commissions 20 Unit Staff Quarters for DIA Personnel in Abuja

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has commissioned a 20-unit one bedroom staff accommodation built by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Nyanya, Abuja, reaffirming the Federal Government's commitment to improving the welfare of personnel of the Armed Forces.

The project, commissioned on Thursday, is part of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration's Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at addressing accommodation shortages and enhancing the living conditions of military personnel.

Speaking at the ceremony, Matawalle described decent housing as a critical component of personnel welfare, noting that comfortable accommodation contributes significantly to improved morale, operational efficiency and dedication to national service.

"Accommodation remains one of the most critical needs of our personnel. A comfortable home is not a luxury but a necessity. 

"It provides peace of mind, enhances morale and improves efficiency and dedication to duty," the minister said.

He commended the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, for initiating the project, describing it as a remarkable achievement that reflects the agency's commitment to the welfare of its personnel.

Matawalle also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his sustained support for the Armed Forces and his commitment to improving troop welfare and operational effectiveness.

The minister assured the Defence Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defence's continued support in strengthening its capacity to deliver on its national security responsibilities.

He urged beneficiaries of the newly commissioned accommodation to ensure proper maintenance of the facility, stressing that responsible use would preserve the building for future occupants.

Following the commissioning, Matawalle formally unveiled the facility by cutting the ceremonial tape before inspecting the newly remodelled accommodation.

Earlier, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Undiandeye, thanked the minister for personally commissioning the project, describing his presence as a demonstration of the Federal Government's commitment to the welfare of DIA personnel.

He also conveyed the agency's appreciation to President Tinubu for his continued support and reaffirmed the loyalty and dedication of the management and personnel of the Defence Intelligence Agency to safeguarding Nigeria's security.

The event was attended by the Coordinator of the Defence Intelligence Agency Officers' Wives Association, Mrs. Jane Undiandeye, directors of the agency, senior military and civilian personnel, regimental sergeant majors, soldiers and other staff members.