The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) yesterday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 4 blocks of 30-unit of 2-bedroom Corporal and Below Quarter in the Nigerian Army at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment Giri, Abuja.
The project estimated to cost N2 billion is the corporate social responsibility initiative of the Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu.
The grant formed part of the N10 billion Security Support Fund donated by ASR Africa in 2022 to the Nigerian Armed Forces and security agencies with N2billion of it allocated to the Nigerian Army.
The ceremony held at the cantonment for 167 Special Forces Battalion was performed by Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja..
Speaking at the occasion, the CEO of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, said the donation was to further support security agencies as there can be no meaningful development without peace and security in the nation.
He commended the leadership of the Nigerian Army for prioritising the welfare of the men and women of the Nigerian Army, and promised continued support by the ASR team in ensuring the full implementation and delivery of the project.
In his response, Lt Gen Lagbaja, said the support from the Chairman of BUA Group will further boost the morale of the personnel in delivering adequate security to Nigerians.
The houses would substantially address the huge infrastructure deficit the Nigerian Army was facing in Abuja by proving shelter for 120 families of the soldiers.
He said aside the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving the nation’s constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment, which is the statement of his Command Philosophy, families of his officers and soldiers must be well quartered, educated, and provided with good medical cover.
“This explains why my command philosophy has sound administration as its third beam and support to the home front as a major pillar carrying that beam. “The government and the society are duty-bound to provide for its military and other security agencies. We must, therefore, be partners in progress in the drive to give our warriors the best so that we can demand their best,” Lagbaja said.
In attendance also were the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General B. R. Sinjen; the Chief of Logistics, Major General E. Akerejola and other principal staff officers of the Nigerian Army Headquarters, including Maj Gen O.S Abai.