By Chimezie Godfrey
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed the adoption of world-class management standards across Nigerian Army hospitality businesses to improve service delivery and ensure long-term sustainability.
Shaibu gave the directive on Tuesday at the opening of the Army Headquarters Department of Special Services and Programmes (DSSP) Annual Army Officers’ Mess and Suites Stakeholders Conference 2025 in Abuja.
The conference, themed “Conforming to World-Class Management Standards for Sustainable Nigerian Army Hospitality Businesses,” brought together key stakeholders and industry experts to review strategies for strengthening Army hospitality services.
“Excellence in service delivery is critical to sustainability and institutional credibility,” Shaibu said.
He commended the DSSP for implementing reforms that have repositioned Army hospitality assets in line with global best practices.
The COAS also praised the subsidised services provided by Army Officers’ Mess and Suites, noting that they have improved service quality and encouraged innovation.
“These initiatives have enhanced customer engagement, inclusiveness, and professionalism in hospitality management,” he stated.
Represented by the Chief of Logistics (Army), Major General Adekunle Adeyinka, Shaibu urged participants to align with his command philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional and resilient force.
“Our objective is to build a combat-ready and adaptable Army capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities,” he said.
He further encouraged DSSP officials to explore emerging opportunities in the hospitality sector.
“We must continue to strengthen service standards and operational effectiveness nationwide,” Shaibu added.
The Army Chief expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support.
“We remain loyal to the President, the Constitution, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Earlier, the Chief of Special Services and Programmes, Major General Aminu Garba, said the department had made progress in improving service delivery.
“Our reforms have enhanced quality management and customer satisfaction,” Garba stated.