The Traffic

Army Chief Doubles Troops Feeding Allowance, Rolls Out Housing and Loan Schemes

By Achimi Muktar

In a major welfare boost for Nigerian Army personnel, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced a 100% increase in the daily Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) for troops—from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000—effective from the end of March.

Oluyede made the announcement during his duty tour of project sites under the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army at the 9th Brigade Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos. Addressing officers and soldiers, he expressed displeasure that troops were still receiving ₦1,500 per day and assured them that their welfare remains a top priority.

More Than Just Feeding – COAS Launches Housing Scheme for Retiring Soldiers

Beyond the feeding allowance increase, Oluyede acknowledged a pressing concern—many warrant officers do not have homes to retire to after years of service. To tackle this, he announced a Nigerian Army Housing Scheme, aimed at ensuring every retiring officer has a place to call home.

“In December, under the Nigerian Army Housing Scheme, we unveiled the first set of houses in Abuja. We are building new ones in Ibadan, and we’ve also secured land for another set in Jos. In addition, housing units are being developed in Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Akwa Ibom,” Oluyede revealed.

He emphasized that the scheme offers affordable housing, with two- or three-bedroom houses priced as low as ₦8 million, making it one of the most affordable housing projects in Nigeria.

“You will all agree with me that nowhere else in Nigeria can you buy a two- or three-bedroom house for as low as ₦8 million,” he stated.

Low-Interest Loan Scheme – Financial Relief for Soldiers

To further ease financial burdens, the Army Chief introduced a low-interest loan scheme for soldiers, with a minimal 3% interest rate—a stark contrast to the 25% interest rates charged by banks.

“More funds will be injected into the scheme, so if you have pressing financial needs, you are encouraged to apply,” he announced.

However, he advised caution, urging soldiers to borrow only when necessary.

“It is easy to obtain but difficult to repay. If you don’t truly need it, it’s best not to take it. But it is available to you as a right, and once approved, you will receive it quickly,” he reassured.

No More Buying Uniforms – Army Distributes 100,000 Kits Monthly

Another long-standing complaint among troops has been the personal purchase of military uniforms. Oluyede addressed this issue head-on, revealing that the Army has begun distributing 100,000 kits per month.

“We have allocated uniforms to smaller divisions. The next phase will cover the 82nd Division, and once we complete distribution there, we will issue more uniforms here. I assure you that before the end of the year, you will likely receive another set,” he promised.

He admitted that obtaining military kits has been challenging, but reassured soldiers that the Army is committed to resolving the issue.

Loyalty and Commitment Remain Key

Wrapping up his address, Oluyede urged troops to remain dedicated, emphasizing that their commitment and discipline are crucial to the success of the Nigerian Army.

This sweeping welfare overhaul marks a significant step forward in ensuring better living conditions for Nigeria’s soldiers. With higher feeding allowances, affordable housing, easy-access loans, and free military kits, the Army is making strides to improve troop morale and well-being.