By Hashidu Ahmed, Minna, Niger state

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede (represented by the Commander, Corps of Artillery, Major General John Adeyemo), has commissioned the remodelled and renovated Vulcan Officers’ Mess at the Kontagora Military Cantonment in Niger State.
The commissioning ceremony, held on March 25, 2026, highlighted the importance of the facility in promoting professionalism, regimentation, and social interaction among officers. It is also expected to strengthen civil-military relations in Kontagora and its environs.
Speaking at the event, the COAS representative noted that the Mess would serve as a hub for officers, heads of sister security agencies, and honorary members to socialise, interact, and exchange ideas in support of military operations. He encouraged robust utilisation of the facility, including the Mess hall, multipurpose hall, and kitchen, to enhance catering services and overall welfare.
In his remarks, Major General John Adeyemo expressed appreciation to the former Chief of Army Staff, now Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for approving the renovation of the Mess. He stated that the upgraded facility would boost social engagement, interaction, and regimentation among personnel.
He also commended the initiator and executor of the project, retired Major General Zakari Abubakar, for his contributions, noting that the project has significantly improved the welfare and social life of officers within the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery and the wider Kontagora community.
In his address, Major General Zakari Abubakar (Rtd) expressed gratitude to the former COAS for approving the project and releasing the necessary funds. He explained that the initiative was conceived to enhance officers’ social life, strengthen regimentation, and foster interaction with other security agencies and the civilian population, thereby deepening civil-military relations.
The event was attended by the Commander, Nigerian Army Training Centre, Major General Abubakar Haruna, senior officers from the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery and the Nigerian Army Training Centre, members of the academia, heads of sister security agencies, the Chairman of Kontagora Local Government Area, stakeholders, honorary members, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, members of the press, and other invited guests.
Activities at the ceremony included the formal commissioning of the Mess, unveiling of the plaque, inspection of the facility, a reception, and a group photograph to mark the occasion.