Nigerian Army denies welfare claims made by a dismissed ex-soldier, defending salaries, allowances, and provision of equipment

In Abuja, Nigeria, on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations circulating on social media regarding poor welfare, remuneration, and equipment provision, describing the claims as misleading and unfounded.

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The clarification follows public comments made by a dismissed ex-lance corporal, Rotimi Olamilekan, who had appeared in an online interview criticising the Army over welfare packages, salaries, and access to uniforms and protective gear.

Reacting in an official statement, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, stated that the allegations do not reflect the reality of the Army’s operational and administrative structure. She emphasised that the institution remains focused on its core mandate of safeguarding national security.

The Nigerian Army Denies Welfare Claims, with the spokesperson clarifying that the dismissed soldier, identified as Ex-18NA/77/1009 Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, also known as “Soja Boi”, was not discharged for expressing opinions but for repeated acts of indiscipline.

These included violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy and other regulatory breaches.

According to the statement, the Army operates under a strict Code of Conduct guided by the Armed Forces Act, which governs the behaviour of personnel both in service and in public engagements.

Unauthorised media appearances and the commercial use of military identity were cited as violations of established rules.

The Army further explained that its remuneration system is structured and transparent, with salaries determined by rank and years of service.

It added that personnel receive additional allowances, including uniform allowances, which are paid directly into their accounts alongside their monthly earnings.

Troops deployed on operations, particularly those stationed outside their base units, are entitled to Ration Cash Allowance and Habitat Allowance, in addition to free feeding arrangements.

Personnel serving in operational theatres such as Operation HADIN KAI in the North East also receive operational allowances and mission-specific entitlements.

The Nigerian Army Denies Welfare Claims regarding equipment provision, stating that uniforms, protective gear, arms, ammunition, and other operational materials are provided institutionally through established logistics systems.

The Army described the claim that personnel are required to purchase such items as entirely false.

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The statement underscores the Army’s effort to correct public misconceptions while reaffirming its commitment to personnel welfare, operational readiness, and adherence to professional standards.