The Nigerian Army has taken a significant step in addressing the welfare of its personnel by unveiling 400 housing units in Abuja.
This landmark project is part of the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) initiative.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, handed over keys to 20 soldiers injured in the line of duty during the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday.
The homes are part of a broader effort to provide decent accommodation for military personnel and their families.
General Oluyede described the project as a continuation of the vision of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General T.A. Lagbaja.
“The late COAS was committed to the welfare of soldiers, and this initiative embodies his philosophy,” Oluyede stated.
He further emphasised his own dedication to ensuring that soldiers’ needs remain at the forefront of the Army’s agenda.
“This project represents a landmark achievement in improving the well-being of our soldiers and their families,” he said.
The project aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estate Scheme, which prioritizes housing for all Nigerians.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, applauded the initiative, urging other branches of the Armed Forces to replicate such efforts.
“The importance of decent shelter in a soldier’s life cannot be overstated,” General Musa remarked.
He called on state governors across Nigeria to allocate land for similar projects, noting that Abuja alone cannot accommodate all personnel.
“Governors of Akwa Ibom and Edo States have already set an example by providing land for this scheme. Others should follow suit,” he added.
General Musa also highlighted the broader impact of such projects, saying they foster development, enhance security, and strengthen ties between the military and civilians.
“This is not just about housing; it is about nation-building,” he stated.
The AHOOAS initiative is designed to address the long-standing housing challenges faced by military personnel.
Under the scheme, soldiers can acquire homes in their preferred locations, with additional phases planned for Benin City, Ibadan, and Uyo.
The Abuja phase, located in Idu, took only 15 months to complete, thanks to the Army’s use of direct labor.
“This is just the beginning,” Oluyede affirmed. “We are committed to completing subsequent phases swiftly.”
For the beneficiaries, the houses represent more than just shelter; they symbolize stability and appreciation for their sacrifices.
One of the wounded soldiers expressed gratitude, saying, “This is a dream come true. It gives us hope that our service is valued.”
The Nigerian Army has also called on stakeholders to support the initiative by providing additional land and resources.
General Musa stressed that soldiers should have homes in their geopolitical zones, promoting ties to their communities even after service.
“This project ensures that our heroes have a place to call home, not just in Abuja but across the nation,” he said.
The ceremony was a moving reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and the importance of recognizing their contributions.
By prioritising housing and welfare, the Nigerian Army is setting an example for other sectors to follow.
