COAS Raises Troops’ Daily Feeding Allowance to ₦3,000, Introduces Housing and Loan Schemes for Soldiers

In a significant move to improve the welfare of Nigerian Army (NA) personnel, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has announced an increase in the daily Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) for troops from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000, effective from the end of March.

The announcement came while Oluyede was addressing officers and soldiers of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army at the 9th Brigade Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos. The COAS, who is currently on a duty tour of project sites within the 81 Division’s area of responsibility, assured troops of his commitment to improving their welfare.

Improving Soldiers’ Welfare: COAS Unveils New Initiatives

Upward Review of Feeding Allowance

For years, Nigerian soldiers have voiced concerns over the inadequacy of their daily feeding allowance, which had remained at ₦1,500. The increase to ₦3,000 is seen as a long-overdue adjustment aimed at ensuring that troops receive better nutrition while carrying out their duties.

Oluyede acknowledged the frustrations of soldiers and emphasized that the increase was necessary to reflect the current economic realities. The revised allowance is expected to take effect by the end of March, marking a positive step toward enhancing military welfare.

Housing Scheme for Retiring Officers

Another critical issue the COAS addressed was the lack of proper housing for many retiring Warrant Officers. He expressed concern that several long-serving soldiers had no personal homes to return to upon retirement.

To tackle this challenge, the Nigerian Army has introduced a housing scheme designed to provide affordable homes for retiring officers.

Key Details of the Housing Initiative

• The first set of houses under the Nigerian Army Housing Scheme was unveiled in Abuja in December.
• New housing projects are currently underway in Ibadan, Jos, Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Akwa Ibom to ensure a widespread distribution of homes across Nigeria.
• Soldiers can subscribe to these homes at affordable rates, with two- and three-bedroom houses available for as low as ₦8 million—a price significantly lower than what is obtainable in the Nigerian real estate market.
• The Army is accelerating the housing initiative to ensure more personnel benefit before retirement.

“This is a significant investment by the Army to ensure you have a comfortable post-service life,” Oluyede stated. “I want you to believe in this system because it is worthwhile.”

Low-Interest Loan Scheme for Soldiers

In addition to the housing initiative, the COAS revealed that the Nigerian Army has introduced a low-interest loan scheme to support soldiers in need of financial assistance.

Loan Scheme Highlights

• The loan comes with an exceptionally low 3% interest rate, making it more affordable compared to commercial bank loans, which typically have interest rates of around 25% or higher.
• Soldiers can apply for the loan to undertake personal projects or cover urgent financial needs.
• The Army plans to inject more funds into the scheme, ensuring that as many soldiers as possible can benefit.
• However, Oluyede cautioned troops against taking loans unnecessarily, advising them to apply only if they truly need financial assistance.

“If you don’t truly need it, or if it’s not urgent, it’s best not to take it,” he warned. “While the loan is available and easy to obtain, repayment can be challenging. But if you do need it, apply, and you will receive it as quickly as possible.”

Provision of Uniforms for Soldiers

Another major concern Oluyede addressed was the issue of soldiers paying for their own uniforms out of pocket. Recognizing this as an unfair burden on personnel, he announced that the Nigerian Army has begun the distribution of 100,000 uniforms monthly to troops.

Uniform Distribution Plan

• Uniforms are currently being allocated to smaller divisions.
• The 82nd Division is next in line for uniform distribution.
• Soldiers in other divisions, including the 81st, can expect their uniforms before the end of the year.
• The Army is committed to ensuring continuous supply of uniforms, although Oluyede acknowledged that acquiring them is a complex process.

“As soon as we acquire more, you will get them,” he reassured soldiers.

Encouragement for Soldiers to Remain Committed

With these new welfare packages—including the feeding allowance increase, the housing scheme, low-interest loans, and free uniform distribution—Oluyede urged personnel to remain dedicated to their duties.

He stressed that more is expected from Nigerian soldiers in terms of security operations, discipline, and national defense.

“These improvements are being made to support you, but in return, we need your absolute commitment to protecting this nation,” he said.