The Annual Army Officers’ Mess and Suites Stakeholders Conference 2024, has ended at the Department of Special Services and Programmes (DSSP) with a pledge by the Chief of Army Staff to lend support for greater efficiency.
The 3-day conference with the theme: “Improving the Efficiency of the Army Officers’ Mess and Suites for Enhanced Productivity,” took place from December 11 to 13, 2024, at the College Lecture Hall, Army War College Nigeria, Asokoro, Abuja.
In his keynote remarks on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, the Director General Land Forces Simulation Centre, Major General Usman Yusuf, highlighted the critical importance of efficient coordination and management of the Nigerian Army’s welfare investments.
He emphasized that improving the Army Officers’ Mess and Suites (AOMS) remains essential for sustainability and delivering premium services to personnel.
Major General Yusuf acknowledged challenges such as high electricity tariffs, rising fuel costs, and expensive maintenance.
However, he assured participants that the Nigerian Army leadership is committed to exploring viable solutions to mitigate these issues and ensure efficient service delivery.
He also commended the DSSP for its proactive efforts in repositioning AOMS and urged the department to continue innovating to enhance productivity in the hospitality sector.
“I commend the CSSP and his staff for organizing this conference. The DSSP must continue building on its accomplishments while exploring opportunities to innovate and expand the hospitality services footprint.”
In his welcome address, the Chief of Special Services and Programmes (CSSP), Major General Henry Wesley, reiterated DSSP’s commitment to improving and expanding the services provided by AOMS.
He noted that under the COAS’s directive, the department aims to position AOMS for competitive service delivery and profitability, with plans to extend its reach to major cities across Nigeria.
“This conference is an opportunity to review the year’s activities and chart a course for 2025 as we prepare for the COAS Annual Conference next week,” Major General Wesley said.
The conference featured two insightful lectures: “Time Management and Productivity in Hospitality Business,” delivered by Mr. Aturu Samson, and “Teamwork and Collaboration in the Hospitality Industry,” presented by Engr. Chibuikem Diala.
These sessions provided participants with actionable strategies to enhance efficiency and collaboration within the Army’s hospitality establishments.