The Director General of the Nigerian Army Finance Corporation, Major General JE Osifo, has urged officers and soldiers serving within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility to fully embrace the welfare and insurance schemes introduced by the Nigerian Army.
Osifo made the appeal during a sensitisation lecture on the Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance Scheme and other welfare initiatives held at the Hippo Officers Mess in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The programme formed part of a nationwide campaign aimed at educating troops on welfare packages designed to safeguard the interests of military personnel and their families during and after service.
Speaking at the event, the NAFIC Director General disclosed that the sensitisation exercise commenced about four weeks ago and has covered major military formations and operational theatres across the country.
He explained that the outreach was designed to deepen awareness among personnel on the numerous welfare interventions available to them under the Nigerian Army structure.
According to him, the Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance Scheme remains one of the military’s most comprehensive welfare initiatives, offering protection against service related risks, including injuries, disabilities, medical expenses and death.
Osifo further stated that the lecture was structured to guide personnel on claim procedures, documentation requirements and benefits payable to beneficiaries and next of kin.
The senior officer stressed the importance of selecting credible next of kin and ensuring that personal records are regularly updated to avoid complications during claims processing.
He warned that failure by personnel to enroll in the welfare schemes could result in the loss of critical benefits and entitlements meant for soldiers and their families.
The NAFIC boss also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for sustaining policies targeted at improving the welfare and morale of officers and soldiers nationwide.
In a welcome address delivered on behalf of the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Major General AA Babalola, the Commander 45 Engineer Brigade, Brigadier General MO Momoh, described the sensitisation programme as a strong reassurance of the Army’s commitment to its personnel.
He noted that the welfare scheme goes beyond administrative policy and reflects the institution’s determination to protect soldiers who face enormous risks during operations and training exercises.
The GOC maintained that no military personnel should be left uncertain about their welfare status, especially considering the sacrifices demanded by military service across different operational environments.
He added that the seminar equipped officers and soldiers with practical knowledge needed to access their entitlements seamlessly and without unnecessary delays.
Participants drawn from formations and units within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility actively engaged resource persons during the one day workshop, which featured lectures on welfare policies, interactive sessions, presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph.