The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, on Thursday commissioned a newly constructed block of 20 one-bedroom staff apartments built by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Nyanya, Abuja, describing the project as a significant investment in the welfare and operational effectiveness of the nation’s security personnel.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony as Special Guest of Honour, Matawalle said the housing project aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment under the Tinubu administration to improve the welfare of members of the Armed Forces by expanding access to decent and comfortable accommodation.
He noted that providing quality housing for military personnel is critical to improving their morale, productivity and commitment to national service.
“Accommodation remains one of the most critical needs of our personnel and staff. A comfortable home is not a luxury but a necessity. It provides peace of mind, enhances morale, and improves efficiency as well as dedication to duty,” the minister said.
He commended the Chief of Defence Intelligence for initiating the project, describing it as a commendable intervention that reflects the agency’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel.
Matawalle also acknowledged what he described as the continued achievements of the Defence Intelligence Agency under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, attributing the agency’s progress to the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The minister expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for his continued commitment to strengthening the welfare and operational capacity of Nigeria’s military, noting that the agency’s recent milestones had been made possible through sustained government support.
As Supervising Minister of the Defence Intelligence Agency, Matawalle reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting the agency in the discharge of its national security responsibilities.
He also urged beneficiaries of the new accommodation to ensure the facilities are properly maintained, stressing that responsible use would preserve the buildings for future generations of personnel.
Following the ceremony, the minister officially commissioned the facility by cutting the ceremonial tape before inspecting the newly completed residential block.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, thanked the minister for personally commissioning the project, describing his presence as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of Defence Intelligence Agency personnel.
He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support for the agency and reaffirmed the commitment of the DIA’s management and personnel to the defence and security of Nigeria.
Among those in attendance were the Coordinator of the Defence Intelligence Agency Officers’ Wives Association, Mrs. Jane Undiandeye, directors of the agency, senior military and civilian officials, regimental sergeant majors, soldiers and other members of staff.
