By Ruth Dabo
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces in the collective fight against insecurity across the country.
He made the call during the commissioning of the New Niger Barracks Extension and the Link Road connecting Mambilla Barracks with the State House Clinic in Abuja.
The event, held at the Niger Barracks Defence Transit Accommodation, Asokoro, had in attendance the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, alongside senior military officers, government officials, and other dignitaries.
General Musa described the project as a significant milestone in the Armed Forces’ continuous effort to enhance the welfare and operational environment of its personnel. He explained that the newly constructed officers’ accommodation and the link road connecting the Nigerian Army Resource Centre at Mambilla Barracks with the Army Headquarters Command Mess and the Defence Intelligence Agency would improve efficiency, safety, and community living within the military environment.
He said, “This ceremony signifies another important milestone in our drive to enhance the welfare and operational environment of personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Today’s commissioning represents a tangible expression of our collective effort to improve the living and working conditions of our personnel and their families.”
The Defence Chief expressed appreciation to the Speaker for honouring the invitation despite his busy schedule. “We thank you, sir, for how you steer the affairs of the House of Representatives. Your support has continued to make our work a lot easier,” he stated.
General Musa explained that the project aligns with his leadership philosophy, which emphasizes jointness, professionalism, and prioritizing the welfare of personnel. “Operational success begins with the welfare and morale of our troops. By improving their quality of life, we are investing directly in the strength, efficiency, and unity of our forces,” he added.
He commended the National Assembly for its unwavering support to the Armed Forces through timely approvals that have enabled the Defence Headquarters to embark on welfare-driven projects. The CDS also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to the welfare, training, and operational needs of troops, noting that such support has continued to boost morale and reduce insecurity nationwide.
General Musa further revealed that the commissioned facilities represent the first phase of a broader plan to provide more accommodation for officers and personnel. He expressed gratitude to the Federal Housing Authority and Modigate for their collaboration and swift execution of the project, describing their efficiency as commendable.
Concluding his remarks, he extended appreciation to all Nigerians for their continuous support to the Armed Forces, saying, “We cannot do much without the support of Nigerians. The challenge we face is a collective one, and it takes all of us working together as a team to defeat our common enemy. Let us not get tired. Things are improving, and together we will succeed.”
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who served as Special Guest of Honour, commended the Armed Forces for their gallantry, discipline, and sacrifices in defending the nation.
According to him, “The projects we are commissioning today are expressions of national commitment to the welfare, morale, and operational effectiveness of the men and women who keep our republic safe. On behalf of the National Assembly and indeed the Nigerian people, I salute the courage and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. Many of our compatriots in uniform have paid the supreme price. We honour their memory and stand with those who bear visible and invisible scars.”
The Speaker noted that the commissioned projects reflect a leadership philosophy at the Defence Headquarters that places welfare at the heart of military capability. “No fighting force, regardless of equipment or doctrine, can perform at its best without decent accommodation, reliable infrastructure, and a humane work-life environment,” he said.
He explained that the facilities would boost morale, improve movement between key military establishments, and enhance the efficiency of officers and their families. He further emphasized that the National Assembly remains committed to strengthening the Armed Forces through adequate funding, effective oversight, and legislative reforms.
“Working with the Senate, we have supported budget allocations for platforms, munitions, communications, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities while insisting on value for money and timely delivery. We have also approved funds for barracks rehabilitation, family housing, medical care, mental health support, and veterans’ welfare,” Abbas stated.
The Speaker commended General Musa for his purposeful leadership and commitment to welfare as a strategic pillar of military effectiveness, noting that the projects are evidence that “leadership matters.” He also acknowledged the Service Chiefs, engineering teams, contractors, and families of military personnel for their efforts and sacrifices.
Rt. Hon. Abbas stressed the need for sustainability and proper maintenance of the new facilities. “We must take care of this infrastructure, follow standards, and adopt preventive maintenance. Our goal is to create lasting capabilities, not just quick fixes,” he advised.
He concluded by calling for stronger collaboration between government, security agencies, and communities, noting that “Nigeria’s security depends on cooperation between government and society. Military action must be complemented by political engagement, community involvement, economic development, and justice.”
The commissioning ceremony underscored the strong partnership between the Defence Headquarters and the National Assembly in promoting military welfare and infrastructure, reaffirming the nation’s shared commitment to security, unity, and progress.
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