The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has raised concerns about the Nigerian Army’s limited resources amidst rising personnel recruitment.
He disclosed that the Army enlists approximately 15,000 personnel annually but lacks adequate support for providing accommodation for its growing ranks.
Speaking on Monday during a condolence visit by the Senate Committee on Army, led by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, Oluyede emphasized the urgent need for improved funding to address the Army’s housing and operational challenges.
“Over the last few years, we’ve been recruiting about 15,000 personnel annually, yet not a single provision has been made for their accommodation,” he stated.
“It gives me sleepless nights to think about where these soldiers would live if insecurity were brought under control.”
The Army Chief appealed to the National Assembly to prioritize critical issues affecting the military in the upcoming budget, including accommodation and technological advancements to enhance operations.
In response, Senator Yar’Adua commended the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his contributions to national security and urged Oluyede to continue his legacy.
He assured the Army of the Senate’s continued support and called for the integration of technology to combat terrorism effectively.
The meeting highlighted the pressing need for increased resources to support the Army’s growing responsibilities and improve welfare for personnel amidst Nigeria’s security challenges.
