By Victor Akaa
In a significant move to enhance the welfare of officers, soldiers, and their families, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Jamal Abdussalam, has commissioned the Nigerian Army Post Exchange (NAPEX) Supermarket at Python Shopping Mall in Port Harcourt Barracks.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Div Army Public Relations, disclosed this in a statement said this milestone underscores the Division’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing troop welfare and providing a conducive living environment.
The unveiling ceremony, held on Friday was attended by high-ranking military officials, dignitaries, and representatives from Bakan Gizo Pharmacy and Stores Limited, the operating partner of the NAPEX Supermarket.
Major General Abdussalam, in his remarks, reaffirmed the Division’s dedication to promoting sound administration and personnel welfare, aligning with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja’s command philosophy.
He emphasized that the NAPEX Supermarket represents a critical step in the ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of troops and their families in Port Harcourt Barracks.
He said the operationalization of the mall is a testament to our commitment to providing a better living experience for our personnel and their families.
He reiterated his commitment to continue to place a high premium on efforts that promote sound administration and personnel welfare.
The GOC also announced plans to establish a gas plant within the barracks, ensuring easy access to cooking gas at reasonable costs. This initiative is part of the Nigerian Army’s efforts to improve troop welfare, following the recent commissioning of a Petroleum Gas Plant at Headquarters 2 Division.
The Group Managing Director of Nigerian Army Welfare Limited by Guarantee, Major General Samson Jiya, delivered a keynote address highlighting the critical role of welfare in effective troop management.
He praised the COAS for raising the bar in troop welfare and encouraged troops and their families to utilize the services offered at the mall.
He noted that the Nigerian Army, under the leadership of General Lagbaja, has raised the bar high in areas of troops’ welfare.
He said Python Shopping Mall and the newly established NAPEX Supermarket are in line with the COAS’ command philosophy, which will continue to have a positive impact on the lives of personnel, their families, and the entire barracks community.
During his vote of thanks, Brigadier General George Nkenke, Managing Director of NAPEX, expressed gratitude to the GOC for initiating the project, which will boost the morale and fighting spirit of troops.
He commended the Managing Director of Bakan Gizo Pharmacy and Stores, Mr. Ifeanyi Obidike, for partnering with NAPEX and urged officers, soldiers, and families to patronize the mall.
The NAPEX Supermarket is equipped with modern facilities and will offer a wide range of products at affordable prices, providing a convenient shopping experience for troops and their families.
The event featured the unveiling of the NAPEX signage, a facility tour, the presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs, marking a significant milestone in the Nigerian Army’s efforts to enhance troop welfare.
With this development, the Nigerian Army reinforces its commitment to enhancing the lives of the personnel and their families, bolstering morale and fighting spirit.
