The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the renovation of the former seat of power, Dodan Barracks, in a bid to preserve the country’s history and improve working conditions for staff.
The decision to renovate the historic building, which housed Nigeria’s military headquarters and the seat of power from 1966 to 1991, came after severe flooding threatened the structure and critical components began to deteriorate.
Dodan Barracks, located in Ikoyi, Lagos, has a rich history, having been the residence and office of several military heads of state and the Supreme Military headquarters during the Nigerian civil war.
It was also the site of the first state visit of a United States President, Jimmy Carter, to sub-Saharan Africa in 1978.
In 2022, plans to rehabilitate the building were announced, with a focus on upgrading its library facilities, preserving historical artifacts, and making it accessible to researchers and academics.
Now, the Federal Executive Council has approved a N4bn budget for the renovation, which is expected to be completed by May 29, 2024.
Senior government officials involved in the project have confirmed that the renovation is necessary due to the damage caused by perennial floods and the deteriorating state of the building.
The rehabilitation will include repairing broken items, renewing the furniture, and making the State House Liaison Office in Lagos more functional.
In addition to preserving Nigeria’s history, the renovation of Dodan Barracks will also improve the working environment for staff and provide a more conducive space for them to carry out their duties.
The project is part of a larger supplementary budget of N2.18tn approved by the Federal Executive Council for the 2023 fiscal year, which covers additional spending in defense, works, and welfare packages.
The restoration of Dodan Barracks is a significant step in preserving Nigeria’s history and ensuring that the building remains a functioning part of the country’s administrative infrastructure.
