Army improves troop welfare, boosts morale in North-East operations

 By: Zagazola Makama 

The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to enhance the welfare of troops deployed in the North-East theatre of operations.

Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of North East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, disclosed this in an interview in Maiduguri on Friday.

Abubakar said that the Army had also introduced reforms aimed at improving morale, operational efficiency and overall well-being of troops in the frontline.

He said that parts of the enhanced welfare for troops include an increase in allowance for soldiers across board from N20,000 to N50,000, covering ranks from privates to warrant officers.

He noted that the upward review reflected the military leadership’s commitment to recognising the sacrifices of troops engaged in the counter-insurgency campaign.

The commander added that the initiative aligned with the “Soldier First” concept of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, which places priority on the welfare and career progression of personnel.

According to him, troops serving in the theatre are now being given increased consideration for foreign training and peacekeeping missions.

“Even as we speak, preparations are ongoing for the deployment of three different batches of soldiers for foreign missions, with priority given to those who have served in the theatre.”

The theatre commander also revealed that the outstanding senior officers were receiving special recognition, with performance-based considerations introduced to reward commitment and professionalism in the field.

He further said that in a bid to ease the burden of deployment, the Nigerian Army had sustained its welfare flight operations, enabling troops to rotate more efficiently and spend less time away from their families.

He said that the initiative had also reduced the risks associated with long-distance road travel, which had historically exposed personnel to security threats.

Abubakar said that on operational readiness, the Chief of Army Staff had introduced quick intervention funds for commanding officers, allowing them to promptly repair and maintain equipment in the field.

“This has greatly enhanced responsiveness and ensured that troops remain combat-ready at all times,” he said.

He highlighted reforms in troop feeding arrangements, noting that food committees have been established across various locations and were managed by the soldiers themselves.

According to him, the initiative allows personnel to determine their meal preferences, ensuring improved nutrition and satisfaction.

“The idea is simple, let the soldiers decide what they eat. This has brought transparency and accountability into the system and has significantly reduced complaints about feeding.”

He added that the reforms by the army had contributed to improved morale among troops, who continue to demonstrate resilience and commitment in spite of the challenges of operating in a complex security environment.