Launches discounted online shop for defence personnel, retirees, corps members

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has pledged that the administration of President Bola Tinubu will continue to protect vulnerable Nigerians in the face of reforms meant to revive and stabilise the nation’s economy.

Speaking during a news conference to mark the country’s 66th anniversary on October 1, 2026, the SGF further said the government remained fully committed to protecting lives and property and defeating all threats to our peace.

Akume said the theme of the celebration was “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity”.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria and security agencies, he noted, were intensifying operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft, while improving intelligence.

According to him, the private sector has a key role in the development of a sustainable future, saying that while they lead in investment, innovation and job creation, government will continue to provide a stable policy environment, transparent regulation and strong institutions to support businesses.

He added that every Nigerian citizen also had a role, saying: “Specifically, we must uphold democratic values. A free press, civil society and active citizenship are as much part of our progress as factories or farms. The media in particular has a constitutional duty to inform the public and hold leaders accountable, inform the public correctly and fairly.”

In his remarks, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, noted that Independence Day occupies a special place in the country’s national life as it reminds Nigerians of the sacrifices that brought them together, the resilience and the responsibility every generation carries to strengthen the country.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Defence Headquarters has launched a discount online shop to provide affordable essential goods for Armed Forces personnel, retirees, veterans and serving Corp members at discounted prices

The online shop, developed by the DHQ in partnership with Zinox Group, is expected to go live on October 1 2026.

Akume, who launched the platform, said the initiative was part of efforts to improve the welfare and morale of personnel of the Armed Forces and their families.

Akume, who commended the Chief of Defence Staff and other stakeholders for the initiative, said the welfare of those serving the country extended beyond the provision of operational capabilities.

He said the use of digital technology through the Konga platform would give eligible serving and retired personnel convenient access to a range of goods at discounted prices.

In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said the discount scheme was one of several initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of personnel in line with the “soldier-first” leadership principle.

He explained that a four-step verification process had been introduced by the Defence Headquarters to ensure that only eligible beneficiaries accessed the platform.