The Nigerian Army (NA) has provided accommodation for 120 soldiers in Ribabu Cantonment and Dalet Barracks, Kaduna, as part of activities to mark the 2020 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Commissioning the renovated and remodelled accommodation in the two barracks under 1 Division (1 DIV) NA yesterday in Kaduna, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, called on the soldiers to redouble effort in the army’s quest to make Nigeria a peaceful, secured and prosperous nation.
Represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division, Maj. Gen. Usman Mohammed, Gen. Buratai commended the contractors for competence and timely completion of the project.
He said, “The renovation of these blocks is indeed another laudable project in the continuation of the army’s effort to address the welfare of troops and their families by providing conducive living accommodation.
“These accommodations which were in deplorable condition have been remodelled to provide separate toilets and kitchens for each family to enhance their comfort and privacy. The renovation of these blocks which consist of 120 flats here in Ribadu Cantonment and Dalet Barracks will go a long way to uplift the morale of troops and improve their living standard.”
He further said, “A home is said to be a haven, comfort zone and a place where someone can truly relax. Therefore, the importance of a befitting home cannot be overemphasised. I am therefore convinced that the beneficiaries of these renovated/remodelled flats would be more inspired to excel in the discharge of their duties.”
The COAS noted that similar remodelled and renovated soldier’s accommodations were commissioned in Ribadu Cantonment in January and May, 2020, and added that “three blocks consisting of 90 flats are currently under renovation.”
He, therefore, urged the beneficiaries and their dependents to reciprocate the gesture by ensuring that the flats were put to good use with a high sense of responsibility through proper maintenance of the facilities.
Similarly, the Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Artillery (NASA), Kachia, Maj. Gen. Usman Shehu Yakubu, commissioned the deputy commandant’s house and student soldiers hostel as part of activities lined up to commemorate the 2020 NADCEL. In a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Capt. Mohammed Maidawa, Maj. Gen. Usman Shehu Yakubu expressed delight over the ongoing transformation in the school and thanked the COAS for his strategic directive and intervention in the school.
The commandant, therefore, enjoined the occupants of the structures to do their best to ensure maintenance.