The Federal Government has launched an online shopping platform that will allow serving and retired military personnel, veterans and their families to purchase essential goods at discounted prices.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume formally unveiled the Armed Forces Online Discount Shop in Abuja.
The platform operates through Nigerian e-commerce company Konga.
The initiative is designed to ease financial pressure on military households and expand welfare support beyond operational provisions, Akume said at the launch.
“The welfare of those who serve our country is a responsibility that extends beyond the provision of operational capabilities,” he said.
“A motivated and resilient Armed Forces is sustained by the assurance of the well-being of each personnel and their families,” the SGF added.
Akume said the inclusion of veterans and their families was particularly important, describing it as a recognition of their contributions and sacrifices to the country.
He also praised Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group, Konga’s parent company, for signing the memorandum of understanding that formalizes the initiative.
The partnership, he said, demonstrated how technology and private-sector collaboration could deliver practical benefits to citizens who had served the country.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede said the discount shop was the first of several welfare initiatives expected to be introduced over the next three months under his “Soldier First” leadership principle.
The armed forces are also exploring partnerships with companies including Dangote Group and BUA Cement to provide military personnel with access to building materials and other essential goods, Gen. Oluyede said.
“By delivering digital technology to the home platform, personnel and veterans can access essential products more conveniently,” he added.
“This demonstrates how technology and strategic partnerships can complement ongoing efforts in good welfare and service delivery”, the Defence Chief said.
Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group and founder of Konga, was represented at the event by Reginald Obiako, Konga’s General Manager for corporate governance.
Obiako said the monthly discount program was intended to recognize the dedication of military personnel and their families.
“Those who serve and protect our nation deserve our support and appreciation,” he said.
The signing ceremony between Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group was a key feature of the launch.
The agreement establishes the framework for implementing the online discount scheme as part of broader efforts to improve military welfare through digital services and private-sector partnerships.
