The Federal Government has launched the Armed Forces of Nigeria, AFN, Personnel Online Discount Shop, a welfare initiative that provides serving personnel, veterans and their families with access to essential goods at discounted prices.
The platform, launched in Abuja on Thursday, uses the Konga e-commerce platform in partnership with Zinox Group to ease financial pressures on members of the armed forces and improve their access to essential goods and services.
The initiative was formally launched by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, the Defence Headquarters and other stakeholders for developing the scheme.
Akume said the welfare of military personnel extends beyond operational capabilities, stressing that a motivated and resilient Armed Forces requires assurance that the wellbeing of its personnel and their families remains a priority.
He described the initiative as a contribution to the Federal Government’s broader welfare framework aimed at improving the quality of life of personnel while reducing financial pressures.
The SGF also highlighted the role of digital technology and private-sector partnerships in delivering practical benefits to members of the armed forces and their families.
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He particularly welcomed the inclusion of veterans and their families, saying their contributions and sacrifices during peace and national security challenges deserved continued recognition and support.
Earlier at the event, the Defence Headquarters and Zinox Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide a framework for cooperation between the Armed Forces and the private sector.
Akume commended the partnership, saying it demonstrated the potential of collaboration between public institutions and private organizations in advancing national objectives.
He urged Defence Headquarters and other stakeholders to ensure that the implementation of the scheme remained transparent, reliable and responsive to beneficiaries’ needs.
According to him, the credibility of the initiative would ultimately depend on the quality of service provided and the tangible benefits delivered to eligible personnel and veterans.
Akume also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support for the Armed Forces and commitment to their welfare under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He encouraged eligible personnel and veterans to make effective use of the platform and formally declared the AFN Personnel Online Discount Shop open for beneficiaries.
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