President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday inaugurated a newly constructed army barracks in Asokoro, Abuja, to address the acute shortage of accommodation for officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.
The facility, named “Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks,” boasts 16 Major General Quarters, 34 Brigadier General Quarters, 60 Major-to-Colonel Flats, and 60 Lieutenant-to-Captain Flats. Additionally, it includes 180 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCO) Blocks of Flats, 264 Corporal-and-Below Flats, worship centers, sports facilities, and a power house to support its operations.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described naming the barracks after President Tinubu as a way of “giving honor to whom honor is due.”
He added, “It is in appreciation of the President’s extraordinary support and commitment to improving the welfare and operational needs of the Nigerian Army, particularly in reducing its accommodation burden.”
Oluyede disclosed that the project was initiated by his predecessors, Late Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, who recognized the urgent need for more accommodation for the growing number of Army personnel in Abuja.
“Today, we celebrate the visionary leadership and relentless effort that created the foundation for us to complete and commission this project,” he said.
The COAS explained that phases one and two of the project provide accommodation for 614 personnel, comprising 170 officers and 444 soldiers, along with their families.
He extended his gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support for ensuring that military personnel enjoy decent, affordable housing.
However, Oluyede emphasized the ongoing housing challenges facing the Nigerian Army, particularly as they continue to reintegrate troops from the frontlines into the barracks.
“I am very confident that we can achieve this goal with continued support from the Federal Government and other stakeholders,” he added.
The inauguration of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks underscores the administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and morale of military personnel as they strive to secure the nation.
