The Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, has called for greater recognition of the Nigerian military, stressing that they too deserve to benefit from the dividends of democracy. He made this statement on Friday while inaugurating a newly constructed 1,200-capacity auditorium at Abalti Army Barracks, Surulere, Lagos.
The project, which he facilitated, has been named Bola Tinubu Hall in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Gbajabiamila noted that the initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the military, acknowledging their indispensable role in safeguarding national unity, peace, and stability.
According to him, democracy is not only about serving the civilian populace but also about ensuring that the men and women of the armed forces, who bear the responsibility of protecting citizens and maintaining territorial integrity, are adequately provided for. “Our soldiers are not just defenders of our sovereignty on the battlefield. They are also guardians of peace within our communities. It is only right that they share in the dividends of the democracy they defend,” he remarked.
The Chief of Staff highlighted that the auditorium would serve as a multipurpose facility for training, social engagements, and official functions within the barracks, thereby enhancing the quality of life for personnel and their families. He said such infrastructure reflects government’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members in tackling insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges facing the country.
Gbajabiamila also stressed that investing in the welfare of security operatives contributes directly to strengthening national security. He argued that a motivated and well-supported military would be better equipped to respond effectively to evolving threats, particularly at a time when the nation grapples with complex security dynamics.
The commissioning of Bola Tinubu Hall is part of a broader push to integrate the military into Nigeria’s democratic development agenda. In recent years, the scope of “dividends of democracy” has been expanded to include the welfare of security forces, reflecting their growing role in internal security, disaster response, and civil stability.
With the new facility, the Abalti Army Barracks community is expected to enjoy improved social interaction, training opportunities, and a sense of inclusion in national development initiatives. Gbajabiamila urged continued collaboration between the government and military institutions to sustain efforts aimed at improving the welfare of service members across the country.
