The expansive Birnin Gwari forest, located in western Kaduna State bordering Zamfara, Katsina, and Niger states. This forest is a major notorious hideout for bandits in northwest Nigeria. The dense woodland have sheltered criminal figures like the notorious Dogo Gide.
COAS Commissions Renovated Soldiers’ Accommodation in Jos, Reaffirms Welfare as Foundation of Combat Readiness
By Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed that the welfare of troops remains central to the Nigerian Army’s operational effectiveness, declaring that quality accommodation and improved living conditions are indispensable to building a highly motivated and combat-ready force capable of meeting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
The Army Chief made the declaration on Tuesday during the commissioning of five fully renovated blocks of soldiers’ accommodation at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Plateau State, describing the project as a strategic investment in personnel welfare and a critical component of the Army’s broader transformation agenda.
The commissioning forms part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to modernise barracks infrastructure, improve the quality of life of personnel and their families, and strengthen the operational readiness of troops deployed across various theatres of operation.
Addressing officers, soldiers and their families, Lt. Gen. Shaibu stressed that the provision of decent accommodation goes beyond infrastructure development, noting that it directly impacts morale, discipline, mental well-being and the overall effectiveness of troops in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
He said a soldier who is confident that his family is living in a safe, secure and comfortable environment is better positioned to concentrate fully on operational tasks, whether engaged in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, anti-banditry or other internal security operations across the country.
Guided by loyalty, discipline, courage, integrity, and selfless service, the Nigerian soldier stands ever ready to defend the nation and uphold its honour.
Happy Father's Day to all the brave heroes who stand in harm's way to defend our nation. While many fathers spend today with their families, you continue to make sacrifices to ensure the safety and security of millions of others. Your courage, resilience, and dedication to duty are deeply appreciated. Thank you for the long hours, the missed celebrations, and the risks you take so that others may live in peace. May God protect, strengthen, and reward you and your families abundantly. Happy Father's Day to our gallant heroes.