By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Women Against Terrorism and Insurgency (WATI) has said the newly launched Armed Forces of Nigeria Personnel Online Discount Shop will help strengthen the morale and welfare of serving military personnel, veterans and their families.
The group said the initiative by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) provides a practical mechanism for members of the Armed Forces community to access essential goods at preferential prices, potentially easing some of the financial pressures faced by military families.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, Convener, WATI, Dr. Veronica Bazuaye noted that military personnel operate in demanding environments across the country, making welfare support an important component of maintaining morale and sustaining an effective and resilient Armed Forces.
According to the organisation, the inclusion of veterans and their families in the scheme is particularly significant, as it extends welfare considerations to personnel who have completed their years of active service.
WATI also welcomed plans by the Defence Headquarters to expand the platform by bringing more vendors and categories of essential commodities onto the scheme, including building materials.
The group said the proposed expansion could increase the practical value of the initiative and provide beneficiaries with a wider range of options.
WATI subsequently commended the Defence Headquarters and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for introducing the initiative, describing it as a welfare measure with direct relevance to personnel and their families.
The organisation also commended the partnership between the Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group, saying the collaboration demonstrates how technology and private-sector partnerships can be applied to address specific welfare needs within the Armed Forces community.
The group noted that while operational capabilities remain central to the fight against terrorism, insurgency and other security threats, the welfare of personnel and their families also deserves sustained attention.
It said programmes that reduce financial pressures on military families can complement broader efforts to maintain the morale, resilience and effectiveness of personnel serving in various theatres of operation.
WATI expressed hope that the online discount scheme would be implemented efficiently and transparently and that its coverage would continue to expand to reach more eligible personnel, veterans and their dependants.
The organisation reaffirmed its support for initiatives that improve the welfare and wellbeing of members of the Armed Forces and their families, describing such measures as an important part of supporting those engaged in the country’s security operations.
