By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustainable investment in housing and personnel welfare as a core pillar of institutional development.
Shaibu gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Post-Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) Shopping Complex in Asokoro.
He said the project reflected the army’s deliberate policy direction toward improving the quality of life of serving and retired personnel through prudent resource management and the provision of functional infrastructure within Army estates.
According to him, the shopping complex is designed to enhance service delivery, stimulate legitimate economic activities and support orderly community living within adjoining Army barracks and host communities.
The COAS noted that welfare initiatives must go beyond intent to ensure proper management, effective supervision and long-term sustainability.
“This facility is expected to serve not only as a commercial hub, but also as a catalyst for local enterprise and employment generation,” he said.
Shaibu stressed that while quality construction was important, the safety and sustainability of the complex would depend on responsible usage, strict compliance with regulations and effective facility management.
He urged all allottees and users to remain safety-conscious and take collective responsibility for the protection of lives and property.
The COAS commended the management and staff of PHDL, under both the immediate past and current leadership, for their professionalism and dedication to the successful delivery of the project.
He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for providing the enabling environment for institutional reforms and personnel-focused initiatives.
Earlier, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of PHDL, Maj.-Gen. Isaiah Allison, said the shopping complex was delivered with emphasis on safety, operational efficiency and user experience.
Allison disclosed that the facility was equipped with modern security and fire-safety systems, reliable power supply and adequate parking to ensure functionality and sustainability.
He added that PHDL would continue to expand welfare-driven investments across army estates, with another shopping complex in Warri billed for inauguration in the coming weeks.
“As we commission this shopping complex today in Abuja, I am pleased to inform you that another PHDL shopping complex in Warri will also be commissioned shortly, reflecting our broader expansion drive,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
