The Federal Government has launched an online discount shop designed to help serving and retired Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families access essential goods at reduced prices.
The Armed Forces Online Discount Shop was formally launched in Abuja on Thursday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Speaking at the launch, Akume said the welfare of military personnel should go beyond providing operational equipment and capabilities, stressing the importance of supporting their wellbeing and that of their families.
He also commended the inclusion of veterans and their families in the initiative, noting that their sacrifices and contributions to national security deserved continued recognition and support.
According to the SGF, the initiative demonstrates how technology and strategic partnerships can be used to provide practical benefits to Nigerians who have dedicated themselves to protecting the country.
He said, “The welfare of those who serve our country is a responsibility that extends beyond the provision of operational capabilities. A motivated and resilient Armed Forces is sustained by the assurance of the wellbeing of each personnel and their families.”
Akume said initiatives aimed at improving access to essential goods and services, reducing financial pressures and enhancing citizens’ quality of life were important components of a comprehensive welfare programme.
The online discount shop, operated through the Konga platform, will allow eligible serving and retired military personnel to conveniently purchase a range of products at discounted prices.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said the Armed Forces remained committed to improving the welfare of personnel, veterans and their families.
Oluyede disclosed that the online discount scheme was the first of several welfare initiatives expected to be introduced within the next three months under his “Soldier First” leadership principle.
“This scheme is the first of many initiatives that will be launched over the next three months. It is aimed squarely at enhancing the welfare of our personnel in line with the Soldier First Leadership Principle of the Chief of Defence Staff,” he said.
The CDS said the initiative would leverage digital technology to make essential products more accessible to personnel and veterans.
He added that the Armed Forces was also exploring partnerships with major companies, including Dangote Group and BUA Cement, to provide military personnel with access to building materials and other essential goods.
“We are also trying to interface with the likes of Dangote Group, BUA Cement so that we can have access to building materials and other essential goods that can make their lives better,” Oluyede said.
He commended Zinox Group for partnering with the Armed Forces to establish the initiative.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Zinox Group and founder of Konga.com, Dr Leo Stan Ekeh, represented by Konga’s General Manager, Corporate Governance, Reginald Obiako, described the initiative as a way of appreciating the sacrifices of military personnel and their families.
He said the monthly discounts would enable personnel and their families to access quality products and improve their households.
A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group, formalising the implementation of the online discount scheme.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by the Armed Forces to strengthen personnel welfare through digital innovation and partnerships with the private sector while extending practical support to serving personnel, veterans and their families.
