COAS increases troops’ daily feeding allowance to N3,000

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has announced an increase in the Nigerian Army’s daily Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) from N1,500 to N3,000, effective from the end of March.

He made this known while addressing officers and soldiers of the 81 Division at the 9th Brigade Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos, during his duty tour of project sites within the division’s area of responsibility.

Expressing concern over the current welfare of personnel, Oluyede acknowledged that many serving Warrant Officers do not own homes to retire to.

To address this, he said the army has introduced a housing scheme to ensure retiring officers have a place to live after service.

“I am going to build on what my predecessors have done in improving the welfare of our personnel. I am sure you are all aware of our initiatives.

In December, under the Nigerian Army Housing Scheme, we unveiled the first set of houses in Abuja. As I speak, we are beginning a new set in Ibadan. We have also secured land for another set in Jos. Additionally, we are developing housing units in Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Akwa Ibom states,” he said.

The COAS emphasized that soldiers can subscribe to these houses, which are priced as low as N8 million for two- or three-bedroom apartments, ensuring affordability. He described the initiative as a major step toward improving soldiers’ post-service life.

In addition to the housing scheme, Oluyede announced a three percent interest loan scheme for soldiers to undertake personal projects.

“As for the loan scheme, it comes with just a 3% interest rate. If you go to banks, the lowest interest rate you will find is around 25%. We have deliberately kept our rate low to make it accessible. More funds will be injected into the scheme, so if you have pressing financial needs, you are encouraged to apply. However, I advise that if you don’t truly need it, or if you are not in urgent need, it’s best not to take it. It is easy to obtain but difficult to repay,” he explained.

Addressing complaints about soldiers buying uniforms with personal funds, Oluyede revealed that the army has commenced the monthly distribution of approximately 100,000 kits to personnel.

“We have allocated uniforms to smaller divisions. The next phase will cover the 82nd Division. Once we complete distribution there, we will proceed here and issue more uniforms. I can assure you that before the end of the year, you will likely receive another set. As soon as we acquire more, you will get them. However, I want to emphasize that obtaining uniforms is not an easy process,” he said.

Oluyede assured personnel that these welfare initiatives aim to boost morale and improve their service conditions. He urged soldiers to remain dedicated to their duties, noting that greater expectations come with these improvements.