By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Army has commissioned renovated accommodation for junior personnel at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, Borno State, as part of efforts to improve soldiers’ welfare, strengthen morale and enhance operational effectiveness.
The project, which comprises three blocks of 12-family Corporals and Below Quarters (CBQ), was commissioned on Thursday, October 29, 2026, during activities marking the first anniversary of Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
The COAS was represented at the ceremony by the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose.
Delivering the Army Chief’s remarks, Ajose described decent accommodation and a conducive living environment as essential requirements for sustaining troops’ morale, discipline and effectiveness.
He noted that military performance on the battlefield must be supported by adequate welfare provisions and a strong administrative foundation at home.
According to him, investment in soldiers’ accommodation represents an investment in human capital and demonstrates the Army’s recognition of the sacrifices made by personnel in protecting the country.
Shaibu also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in force development and personnel welfare.
He acknowledged the contributions of the relevant military departments, contractors, project supervisors and other stakeholders involved in the execution of the project.
The Army Chief urged beneficiaries and their commanders to maintain discipline, accountability and proper maintenance of the facilities to ensure their long-term use.
MORE MILITARY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS UNDERWAY
Beyond the commissioned quarters, the Nigerian Army disclosed that several other infrastructure projects were ongoing at Maimalari Cantonment.
These include additional Corporals and Below Quarters, the drilling of two boreholes, construction of a 50-bed ward for the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital, a new Headquarters 7 Division complex, Senior Officers’ Quarters and renovation of existing family accommodation.
The projects are aimed at improving housing, healthcare and essential facilities for military personnel and their families.
In his welcome address, the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Solomon Diwa, described the commissioning as another milestone in the Army’s welfare initiatives.
Diwa said Corporals and Below constitute an important part of the Army’s fighting strength, performing critical responsibilities at the tactical level.
He explained that providing decent accommodation for junior personnel recognises their sacrifices and reinforces the relationship between welfare, morale and combat readiness.
He also urged the occupants to maintain cleanliness, take ownership of the facilities and ensure their responsible use.
PROJECT INVOLVED EXTENSIVE STRUCTURAL REHABILITATION
Providing details of the project, the Commander, 47 Engineer Brigade, Brigadier General Abubakar Saleh, disclosed that the renovation contract was awarded to Messrs Ammah Contractors Limited through the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Directorate of Procurement.
Saleh explained that following a site assessment, six blocks of six-family Corporals and Below Quarters, comprising 36 two-bedroom flats, were selected for renovation as alternatives to the originally designated structures.
He said the buildings were previously in poor condition, with leaking roofs, structural cracks and damaged floors.
The renovation involved extensive structural rehabilitation, including the installation of columns and beams, repairs to damaged floor slabs and masonry, replacement of roofing sheets, doors and windows, as well as complete electrical and plumbing installations.
According to him, the 47 Engineer Brigade supervised the project under the guidance of Headquarters 7 Division to ensure compliance with approved specifications and quality standards.
BENEFICIARIES PLEDGE PROPER MAINTENANCE
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Warrant Officer Ogunmodede Sunday thanked the Chief of Army Staff for prioritising personnel welfare through the Soldiers First Concept.
He also appreciated the Theatre Commander for representing the COAS and providing leadership during the commissioning.
Ogunmodede pledged that the beneficiaries would maintain the renovated facilities responsibly and reciprocate the gesture through discipline, professionalism and dedication to duty.
He further acknowledged the contributions of the project supervisors, contractors and other stakeholders who supported the successful completion of the work.
The Nigerian Army said the projects reflect its Soldiers First Concept, which places personnel welfare, wellbeing and professional development at the centre of its institutional priorities.
The initiative recognises that improved living conditions and access to essential facilities are important to sustaining morale, operational readiness and effective service to the nation.
