Army Chief Urges Transparency, Accountability In Execution Of Projects

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has tasked the management of Post-Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) with ensuring transparency, accountability and the timely execution of Nigerian Army projects.

He gave the charge yesterday during the inauguration of the Post-Service Housing Development Limited Shopping Complex, Asokoro, Abuja.

He commended the management and staff of Post-Service Housing Development Limited for their professionalism and dedication in delivering the project.

He said, “I encourage you to sustain this momentum while ensuring transparency, accountability, timely execution and effective supervision of all projects under your charge.”

He described the event as a demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s enduring commitment to the holistic welfare of its serving and retired personnel.

He added that this commitment is pursued through deliberate policies, prudent resource management and the provision of enabling infrastructure that enhances quality of life and supports orderly community living.

According to the Army Chief, the shopping complex is intended to serve residents of adjoining Army barracks, improve service delivery and stimulate legitimate economic activity within Nigerian Army estates and host communities.

“It reflects our resolve to ensure that welfare initiatives are not only well-intentioned, but also properly managed, supervised and sustained.

It is our expectation that this complex will serve not only as a commercial hub but also as a catalyst for local enterprise and employment generation,” he said.

He therefore pledged to continue to support initiatives that enhance institutional resilience and align the Nigerian Army with broader national development objectives.

General Shaibu emphasised that while quality construction is essential, long-term value ultimately depends on how facilities are managed and used.

He noted that the safety and sustainability of the facility will depend largely on effective management, strict compliance with regulations and responsible use by all stakeholders.

He therefore urged all allottees to remain safety-conscious, comply strictly with established guidelines, and take collective responsibility for protecting lives and property.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Post Housing Development Ltd, Major General Isaiah Allison, said the completion of the project underscores collective commitment to purposeful development, institutional growth, and sustainable investment within the Armed Forces community.

He said that in driving it to completion, we prioritised operational efficiency, safety, and user experience.

He said to enhance safety and operational sustainability, a professional facility manager has been engaged to oversee security, cleanliness and general facility management.

He stated that the decision was reinforced by a recent burglary incident in which installed items were vandalised.

He therefore said a comprehensive security and safety infrastructure has been installed in the complex.

“Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are fully operational, and modern fire safety systems have been installed, including fire detection systems and portable fire extinguishers. The facility is, therefore, fully fire-ready,” he said.

He added that to guarantee an uninterrupted power supply, a 750 KVA transformer and a 500 KVA generator have been installed.

“This centralised power solution is designed to eliminate the proliferation of private generators, thereby significantly reducing fire hazards within the complex.”