By Chimezie Godfrey
The Director General of the Nigerian Army Finance Corporation, Major General Julius Osifo, has urged troops of Operation Hadin Kai to take full advantage of existing welfare and financial schemes to enhance their well-being and operational effectiveness.
Osifo made the call during a sensitisation visit to troops at the Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East), at the Maimalari Military Cantonment in Maiduguri.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Sani Uba, the DG explained that NAFIC manages key welfare initiatives such as the Nigerian Army Benevolent Fund, Group Life Assurance Scheme, and other support packages for personnel affected by injury, disability, or death in service.
He said the sensitisation programme covered critical areas including the Nigerian Army Personnel Loan Scheme, the Chief of Army Staff Personnel Loan Programme, activities of the Directorate of Non-Public Funds, and the Nigerian Army Microfinance Bank.
Osifo noted that improved awareness of these schemes would boost morale and enhance troops’ performance in ongoing operations.
The DG also commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdusalam Abubakar, for his leadership, noting that sustained operations have significantly degraded terrorist activities in the North East.
In his remarks, Abubakar appreciated the visit, describing it as timely, especially during ongoing dry season operations.
He disclosed that troops had neutralised about 300 terrorists through coordinated offensives.
He added that increased awareness of welfare packages has improved morale among troops, in line with the “Soldier First Culture” of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu.
The visit featured inspection of a quarter guard, interactive sessions with officers, signing of the visitors’ book, and presentation of souvenirs.