CDS Pledges Improved Welfare for Armed Forces Personnel

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe (JTF SS OPDS), to discharge their duties with utmost professionalism and integrity.
General Oluyede gave the charge on Thursday during the commissioning of an ultra-modern Non-Commissioned Officers’ (NCOs) accommodation and a remodelled conference hall at the Headquarters of JTF SS OPDS in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The CDS admonished the troops to avoid all forms of illegal activities and compromise while carrying out their legitimate responsibilities, particularly in safeguarding oil and gas infrastructure, which he described as critical to Nigeria’s economic sustainability.
He reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, noting that enhanced welfare packages are currently being proposed to guarantee the overall well-being of troops.
General Oluyede commended the Commander of JTF SS OPDS, Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, for executing projects that add significant value to the operational system and boost personnel morale.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Oladipo expressed appreciation to the CDS for taking time out of his busy schedule to commission the projects. He explained that the initiatives were conceived and executed in line with the CDS’ Military Strategic Philosophy, which prioritizes troop welfare as a key pillar.
The Commander disclosed that the newly commissioned NCO accommodation comprises 24 apartments, equipped with 24-hour solar power supply, water facilities, beddings, and cooling systems to ensure the comfort of personnel.
He reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of officers and men under his command to boost morale and enhance operational effectiveness in delivering on the mandate of Operation Delta Safe. The mandate includes protecting oil and gas infrastructure, deterring militancy, combating sea robbery, and safeguarding lives and property in the Niger Delta.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah; the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, represented by the Chief of Staff, Air Vice Marshal J.J. Ijugigal; the Commander 16 Brigade, Brigadier General Nurulhayat Mohammed; as well as Principal Staff Officers from Defence Headquarters and other senior military officers.