The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, commissioned 110 new family housing units for junior and senior personnel at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment.
The project, which provides accommodation for Corporals and below as well as Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) cadres, is part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to prioritize personnel welfare.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized that the initiative reflects the Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy. He noted that high-quality living conditions are essential for maintaining a focused and combat-ready force.
“Decent accommodation is not a luxury; it is a necessity that keeps morale high and provides peace of mind, allowing our personnel to face their duties squarely,” the COAS stated. He added that the welfare of soldiers and their families remains the bedrock of a strong and effective Army.
The project was executed by the Directorate of Procurement (Army). Providing a technical breakdown, the Director of Procurement, Major General Sadisu Yakasai, revealed that the estate comprises 52 buildings across 21 blocks, featuring 10 distinct modern designs. The facility includes one- and two-bedroom flats for 80 soldiers, alongside three-bedroom flats and twin houses for 30 SNCOs. Each unit is equipped with a modern sitting room, kitchen, and sanitary facilities.
In his remarks, Major General Yakasai urged the beneficiaries to adopt a strong maintenance culture to ensure the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure.
Echoing this sentiment, the Commander of the Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General John Lar, thanked the COAS for his commitment to the welfare of the lower ranks. He encouraged the families to take ownership of the new estate and protect the facilities provided.
The commissioning underscores the Nigerian Army’s resolve to provide modern, functional, and sustainable housing for its personnel. It reinforces the leadership’s belief that a well-cared-for soldier is indispensable to the successful discharge of the Army’s constitutional mandate.
