BY: ABDULKADIR M LAWAN
In a bid to enhance the welfare of its personnel, the Nigerian Army's 7 Division, Sector 1 Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai has commissioned new housing units at the Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The project, initiated by the Army Headquarters, aims to address the long-standing accommodation challenges faced by soldiers in the region.
According to Brigadier General AGL Haruna, acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division, providing adequate housing for troops is crucial, especially given the ongoing security challenges in the region.
'Some soldiers have been forced to live outside the cantonment due to a shortage of accommodation, posing significant security risks,' he said.
The newly commissioned facilities include a 2x12 family quarters for Corporals and below, which will accommodate 24 households.
The project was constructed by the Army Headquarters' Directorate of Procurement while the house for the 47 Engineer Brigade's Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) was constructed by the Nigerian Army Special Project.
These units are equipped with basic amenities and are expected to improve the living conditions of military personnel, enhancing their operational readiness.
The Army Headquarters has approved the renovation of additional housing blocks and the construction of new ones within the cantonment.
The GOC assured that plans are also underway to install solar-powered boreholes and street lights to improve infrastructure.
He commended the troops for their dedication and sacrifices in the fight against insurgency in the region.
While reacting, the beneficiaries thanked the army for improving their leaving conditions especially by the provision of a housing unit for them.
They assured the GOC of proper maintenance of the new houses.