By Saminu Ibrahim
The Nigerian Army has commissioned three blocks of Corporals and Below Quarters (CBQ) at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, as part of efforts to improve personnel welfare and boost operational effectiveness.
The commissioning, held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, formed part of activities marking the first anniversary of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, in office.
Shaibu, who was represented by the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, said decent accommodation and a conducive living environment were essential to sustaining troops’ morale, discipline and effectiveness.
He stressed that operational success on the battlefield must be supported by adequate welfare provisions and a strong administrative foundation at home.
The army chief described investment in accommodation as an investment in human capital and a demonstration of the military’s appreciation of personnel’s sacrifices and contributions to national security.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support for the Nigerian Army, particularly in force development and personnel welfare.
Shaibu acknowledged the contributions of relevant departments, directorates, contractors, project supervisors and other stakeholders to the successful execution of the projects, noting that sustained institutional support remained crucial to the army’s transformation and operational effectiveness.
The COAS urged the beneficiaries and their commanders to maintain discipline, accountability and proper maintenance of the facilities to ensure their long-term use.
He said the project aligned with the Nigerian Army’s Soldiers First Concept, which prioritises the welfare, well-being and professional development of personnel as essential elements of morale, operational readiness and effective service to the nation.
Beyond the commissioned quarters, several other infrastructure projects are ongoing at Maimalari Cantonment to improve living and working conditions.
The projects include additional Corporals and Below Quarters, two boreholes, a 50-bed ward for the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital, a new Headquarters 7 Division complex, Senior Officers’ Quarters and the renovation of existing family accommodation.
Earlier, the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander, Sector 1, Operation Hadin Kai, Brig.-Gen. Solomon Diwa, described the commissioning as another milestone in the army’s personnel welfare initiatives.
Diwa said Corporals and Below constituted a vital component of the army’s fighting strength, performing indispensable roles at the tactical level.
He noted that providing them with decent accommodation demonstrated the military’s recognition of their service and sacrifices while reinforcing the link between personnel welfare, high morale and combat readiness.
He urged the occupants to maintain high standards of cleanliness, take ownership of the facilities and ensure their responsible use.
In his project description, the Commander, 47 Engineer Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Abubakar Saleh, said the renovation contract was awarded to Messrs Ammah Contractors Limited by the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Directorate of Procurement.
Saleh explained that following a site assessment, six blocks of six-family Corporals and Below Quarters, comprising 36 two-bedroom flats, were selected for renovation as suitable alternatives to the originally designated structures.
He said the buildings had previously been in a severely dilapidated condition, with leaking roofs, structural cracks and damaged floors.
According to him, the renovation involved extensive structural rehabilitation, including the installation of columns and beams, repairs to damaged floor slabs and masonry, replacement of roofing sheets, doors and windows, as well as complete electrical and plumbing installations.
He added that the 47 Engineer Brigade supervised the project under the guidance of Headquarters 7 Division to ensure compliance with approved specifications and quality standards.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Warrant Officer Ogunmodede Sunday thanked the COAS for prioritising personnel welfare through the Soldiers First Concept.
He also appreciated the theatre commander for his leadership and representation of the army chief at the ceremony.
Ogunmodede pledged that the beneficiaries would maintain the facilities responsibly and reciprocate the gesture through discipline, professionalism and dedication to duty.
He further commended the project supervisors, contractors and other stakeholders for their contributions to the successful completion of the project.
