Soldiers stationed at the 7 Division Maimalari Military Cantonment in Maiduguri, Borno State, have cried out over the lack of basic amenities, including electricity and water supply within their facility.
For several months, according to them, the cantonment has been grappling with frequent power shortages, providing only about three hours of electricity daily, and in some instances, experiencing complete blackouts.
These power outages have severely affected the functioning of water pumping machines, worsening the already difficult conditions for the soldiers’ families living in the barracks.
The soldiers expressed frustration, regretting that while they are stationed on the frontline fighting insurgency, their families are also suffering severe deprivations.
They believe that their families deserve better, given the sacrifices they (soldiers) are making. The soldiers also suspect that the electricity shortage might be an attempt to cut costs on electricity bills, though they hope it is not the case.
They, therefore, appealed to the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who is scheduled to visit Maiduguri, to take immediate action to improve the living conditions for their families.
They also called for the restoration of reliable power and water supply within the cantonment.