The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has inaugurated the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) Estate in Ibadan, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s dedication to improving the welfare of its personnel. The ceremony, held on Friday, also marked the opening of a shopping complex, signaling a major boost to soldiers’ quality of life.
Shaibu emphasized that the projects are part of strategic efforts to address the post-service housing needs of soldiers, noting that access to decent housing is a fundamental aspect of troop welfare. “The AHOOAS scheme was conceived to enable serving soldiers acquire affordable and decent homes in locations of their choice, giving them a comfortable retirement after years of service,” he explained.
The COAS underscored that a secure future in housing motivates soldiers to perform optimally in defending the nation. “A soldier assured of his future is better motivated to give his best in the defence of the nation,” he stated, highlighting the project’s alignment with the Army’s core mission.
He recalled the success of the pilot phase in Idu, Abuja, where over 400 housing units were delivered and are now occupied by soldiers and their families. The Ibadan project is part of expanding the scheme nationwide, with similar initiatives underway in Benin, Jos, and Abuja. Plans are also in progress to fast-track home ownership for the Warrant Officers’ cadre.
Shaibu paid tribute to the late former COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who initiated the housing scheme, pledging to build on the foundation laid. He commended the Oyo State Government for supporting military formations and urged other states to allocate land for the project, fostering collaboration.
The Post-Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) shopping complex at Eleyele, Ibadan, was inaugurated alongside the housing estate. Shaibu noted that the complex will provide essential services, support local businesses, and contribute to the economy, complementing the housing initiative.
The COAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Armed Forces and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to securing a prosperous Nigeria. He assured Oyo State residents of continued collaboration with civil authorities in promoting peace and security.
Maj.-Gen. Isaiah Allison, Managing Director of PHDL, stated that 30 of the 60 housing units are earmarked for senior soldiers, and 30 for junior soldiers. Five percent of the units will be reserved for soldiers severely injured in battle, offered at a 70 percent discount.
The Ibadan City Announcer confirmed that 22 shops were inaugurated at the Eleyele shopping complex, enhancing local economic opportunities. The event was attended by Governor Seyi Makinde (represented by the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development), the Olubadan of Ibadanland, senior military officers, and other dignitaries.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu praised the professionalism of PHDL and partners in delivering the projects, stressing that the Nigerian Army remains open to credible public-private partnerships that enhance personnel welfare.
The AHOOAS Estate in Ibadan symbolizes the Army’s resolve to prioritize soldiers’ welfare and post-service security, reflecting a broader vision of supporting those who serve the nation.
This initiative is expected to improve the living standards of soldiers and their families, fostering a motivated and efficient military force.
The Nigerian Army, under Shaibu’s leadership, continues to demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of its personnel, aligning with national security and development goals.
