Army Chief Pledges Infrastructure Boost, Training Drive for New Sokoto Battalion
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, has approved key infrastructural upgrades for the newly established 248 Battalion at Illela Barracks, Sokoto State, as part of efforts to improve troop welfare and strengthen operational readiness.
During a visit to the battalion on Saturday, Lt Gen Shuaibu assured officers and soldiers that the Nigerian Army had placed their wellbeing at the forefront, describing their deployment to the new unit as both historic and strategic.
He told the troops that their current posting positioned them as foundation builders of the battalion, urging them to embrace the responsibility with pride and commitment.
According to the Army Chief, Army Headquarters has given immediate approval for the construction of additional accommodation, development of the parade ground, and construction of the access road leading into the barracks to address pressing challenges faced by personnel.
Lt Gen Shuaibu said the projects were approved after listening to the Commanding Officer’s briefing on the battalion’s needs, adding that the Army was determined to ensure a conducive living and working environment for the troops.
He also placed strong emphasis on training and leadership, charging young officers, especially lieutenants, to uphold their critical role in shaping the unit’s fighting capacity.
He stressed that consistent training and leadership by example would directly influence soldiers’ performance in operations.
The COAS reminded officers and soldiers that the authority vested in them by the President came with a duty to maintain discipline, professionalism and effective leadership at all times.
Addressing the soldiers, he called on them to remain obedient to their commanders and committed to their duties, noting that the nation’s security rests heavily on the strength and dedication of young military personnel.
He assured them that while the Army would continue to provide necessary support, soldiers must equally live up to the standards expected of them.
The visit concluded with an interactive session where troops engaged the Army Chief with questions. He was accompanied by senior officers from Army Headquarters.
