NIGERIA: Army Chief Rallies Troops, Boosts Morale With Welfare Reforms Amid Security Push In Kwara

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

In a bold reaffirmation of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to national security, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on soldiers to make personal and professional sacrifices to ensure a peaceful and secure country.

He delivered this charge during his visit to the 22 Armoured Brigade, the Nigerian Army Institute of Science Education and Technology, and the Nigerian Army College of Education in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The directive was disclosed in a press release signed by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, and issued on April 23, 2025.

The COAS emphasized the critical role of troops in confronting security threats and assured them of comprehensive welfare improvements aimed at boosting morale and operational effectiveness.

According to the statement, General Oluyede announced ongoing reforms to improve living conditions in army barracks, upgrade educational facilities for soldiers’ children, and enhance medical services for their families.

He also disclosed that the army recently increased the Ration Cash Allowance for troops, a move he said is intended to motivate personnel to remain steadfast in their service to the nation.

“Without a peaceful environment, no form of development can take place,” Oluyede stated, adding that the military must remain relentless in denying criminals any foothold in Kwara State and beyond.

Security analysts view the visit as part of a strategic push to maintain stability in the North-Central region amid rising concerns over isolated criminal activity and cross-border threats.

In separate briefings during the COAS’s visit, Brigadier Generals Ezra Barkins (Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade), Damian Dieke (Commandant, NA Institute of Science Education and Technology), and Chidi Echebiwe (Provost, NA College of Education) outlined the progress and operational challenges facing their respective commands.

While morale among the troops appeared high, the COAS’s visit and welfare assurances are expected to strengthen resolve and enhance readiness, particularly in a state considered crucial to Nigeria’s internal security architecture.