The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has honored three exceptional army personnel by presenting them with houses in recognition of their outstanding performances and gallantry in various military operations. Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama announced this commendable act on his social media X account.
The distinguished recipients are Warrant Officer Lassisi Taufiki, Staff Sgt. John Michael, and Sgt. Maidugu Ali, each noted for their extraordinary contributions on the battlefield.
At a ceremony held in Abuja, Capt. Reuben Kovamgiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, read the citations extolling the valor and dedication of the awardees. Representing the COAS, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, Theatre Commander of the North East Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai, emphasized the significance of this recognition.
Lagbaja highlighted that this initiative was driven by the modest yet impactful achievements recorded from January to June 2024, a peak period of dry season offensive operations across various sectors. The meticulous selection process took into account the soldiers’ contributions to their units and formations during these operations.
“These individuals have distinguished themselves through acts of gallantry, bravery, professionalism, and exemplary conduct, as reflected in their citations,” said Lagbaja.
The housing scheme, tagged ‘AHOOAS’, is a home-grown initiative aimed at providing affordable housing to soldiers post-service. Beneficiaries will contribute between N7.2 million and N8.5 million, depending on the type of building, through monthly salary deductions. The COAS has covered the cost of land, documentation, and infrastructural development, amounting to over 58% of the total property cost.
Warrant Officer Lassisi Taufiki, an engineering officer, has been lauded for recovering and repairing military equipment, including tanks and armored personnel carriers, during operations in Sambisa Forest and the Timbuktu Triangle.
Sgt. Maidugu Ali, a gunner, played a pivotal role in destroying terrorist enclaves in Sambisa Forest, neutralizing numerous terrorists, including those with Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIED).
Staff Sgt. John Michael, from the 199 Special Forces Battalion, participated in numerous operations with significant outcomes, including the capture of enemy equipment.
This recognition underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to honoring the bravery and dedication of its personnel, ensuring their well-being both during and after their service.
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