By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO—The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerian troops, describing it as central to national security and military professionalism.

General Musa made the remarks on Saturday while commissioning newly renovated Corporals and Below Quarters at the Giginya Military Cantonment in Sokoto, describing the intervention as a demonstration of the government’s resolve to improve living conditions and boost morale among frontline personnel.

“The strength of our Armed Forces is inseparable from the wellbeing of its men and women. Investments in accommodation, remuneration, and general welfare remain a top priority,” he said, stressing that a motivated and well-catered military is better equipped to confront contemporary security challenges.

The Defence Minister also urged parents to support and guide their children, emphasizing the role of collective responsibility in shaping a better future for the nation. “We should work together as one family for us to succeed,” he added, highlighting unity, resilience, and shared sacrifice as national imperatives.

General Musa reiterated the Armed Forces’ commitment to national unity and assured citizens that forces hostile to Nigeria’s peace and stability would not prevail. He disclosed ongoing efforts to improve soldiers’ welfare, including plans to review salaries and allowances in line with economic realities and the demands placed on troops nationwide.

In his vote of thanks, Garrison Commander Brigadier General Abdulmalik Mohammad Jibia described the minister’s visit as a clear demonstration of the Defence Ministry’s concern for personnel welfare, noting that the project would significantly enhance morale and operational effectiveness. He also commended the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander Sector 2, North-West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Koughna, for ensuring the speedy completion of the renovation.

The Project Coordinator, Alhaji Abdulrahman Musa, explained that the renovation involved multiple components executed strictly to approved standards to ensure durability and safety. Some sections were demolished and rebuilt, and high-quality materials were used to ensure longevity.

The project, awarded on August 15, 2025, was completed on December 21, 2025, within a four-month timeline. Alhaji Musa praised the 4 Engineering Brigade for quality control and thanked the barracks community for their cooperation throughout the construction period, describing the project as a practical reflection of the government’s promise to place troops’ welfare at the core of national defence efforts.