The Federal Government has launched the Armed Forces Online Discount Shop to enable serving and retired military personnel, veterans and their families to access essential goods at discounted prices as part of efforts to improve the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.
The online platform was formally launched in Abuja on Thursday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who said the welfare of military personnel must go beyond providing operational equipment and capabilities to include measures that improve their quality of life and that of their families.
Akume particularly commended the inclusion of veterans and their families in the initiative, noting that their sacrifices and contributions to the nation deserved continued recognition and support. He also commended the Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group for establishing the partnership that gave rise to the scheme.
According to the SGF, the initiative demonstrates how technology and strategic partnerships can be deployed to provide practical benefits to citizens who have dedicated themselves to the security and service of the country.
He said initiatives that improve access to essential goods and services, reduce financial pressures and enhance the quality of life of personnel and their families were important components of a comprehensive welfare framework.
The online discount shop, which operates through the Konga platform, will allow eligible serving and retired personnel and their families to conveniently purchase a range of essential products at discounted prices.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said the Armed Forces remained committed to improving the welfare of its personnel, veterans and their families, describing the online discount scheme as the first of several initiatives planned over the next three months.
Oluyede said the programme was designed to advance the “Soldier First” leadership principle, adding that the military was exploring partnerships with major private-sector organisations to provide personnel with access to essential goods and services.
He disclosed that discussions were ongoing with companies such as Dangote Group and BUA Cement to facilitate access to building materials and other products that could further support the welfare of military personnel.
The CDS said the integration of digital technology into welfare initiatives would make it easier for personnel and veterans to access essential products from their homes, while partnerships with private companies would complement existing government efforts.
He also expressed appreciation to Zinox Group for partnering with the Armed Forces to actualise 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 the company’s contribution towards recognising the sacrifices and dedication of military personnel and their families.
Ekeh said the monthly discount programme would enable eligible personnel and their families to access quality products while reducing the financial burden associated with household purchases.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the initiative and expressed optimism about its continued success.
A major highlight of the launch was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group, formally establishing the framework for the implementation of the online discount scheme.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Armed Forces to strengthen personnel welfare through digital innovation and private-sector partnerships, while providing practical support to serving personnel, veterans and their families.
