The Director General of the Nigerian Army Finance Incorporation (NAFIC), Julius Osifo, has urged troops of Operation HADIN KAI to take full advantage of existing welfare and financial schemes provided by the Nigerian Army to enhance their wellbeing and operational effectiveness.
Osifo made the call on Monday during a sensitisation visit to troops at the Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East) OPHK, located at Maimalari Military Cantonment.
He explained that NAFIC is responsible for managing key welfare initiatives, including the Nigerian Army Benevolent Fund and the Group Life Assurance Scheme, alongside other support packages designed to assist personnel in cases of injury, permanent disability, or death in service.
The NAFIC boss noted that the sensitisation programme covered critical areas such as the Nigerian Army Personnel Loan Scheme, the Chief of Army Staff Personnel Loan Programme, activities of the Directorate of Non-Public Funds, and the establishment of the Nigerian Army Microfinance Bank. According to him, the initiative was aimed at educating troops on their entitlements, responsibilities, and the benefits available to them.
Osifo stressed that improved awareness of these schemes would boost morale and strengthen the fighting spirit of troops engaged in ongoing counterinsurgency operations in the North East.
He also commended the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East OPHK, Abdusalam Abubakar, for his leadership and operational achievements. He noted that sustained offensive actions by troops have significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and helped restore public confidence in the Armed Forces, despite a few isolated setbacks.
In his remarks, Abubakar expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely given the ongoing dry season operations. He disclosed that troops had recorded significant successes, including the neutralisation of about 300 terrorists through coordinated operations and superior firepower.
The Theatre Commander added that increased awareness of welfare packages has played a vital role in boosting troop morale, as personnel are reassured of support in times of need. He noted that the welfare initiatives align with the “Soldier First Culture” of the Chief of Army Staff, W. Shaibu, which prioritises the wellbeing of personnel.
The visit, according to officials, underscores NAFIC’s commitment to promoting professionalism, strengthening welfare awareness, and supporting sustained operational success in the fight against insurgency in the North East.
Highlights of the visit included the inspection of a quarter guard, an interactive session with officers, the signing of the visitors’ book, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph.
