The Nigerian Army has refuted recent media reports alleging widespread resignations of soldiers due to poor welfare and corruption.
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, issued a statement on Sunday in Abuja addressing these claims and providing clarity on the army’s discharge procedures.
Nwachukwu characterized the media reports as misleading and potentially damaging to the army’s reputation, stating, “This publication was not only misleading but also a deliberate attempt to sow the seeds of disaffection and acrimony, as well as denigrate the patriotic service of personnel and the reputation of the Nigerian Army.”
The army spokesman emphasized that service in the Nigerian Army, like most militaries worldwide, is voluntary. He explained, “Personnel are at liberty to disengage from time to time in accordance with laid-down procedures. Discharge from the Nigerian Army is routine and in line with laid-down procedures.”
Nwachukwu outlined that reasons for discharge are confidential and varied, including voluntary disengagement, medical grounds, pursuit of other professions, and community service. He strongly contested the notion that soldiers are resigning en masse due to welfare issues, describing it as “a gross misrepresentation of reality and certainly not the true picture.”
Highlighting the army’s commitment to personnel welfare, Nwachukwu detailed several initiatives under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
These include, the Affordable Housing Option for All Soldiers Scheme (AHOOAS), allowing personnel to choose and own post-service accommodation, massive rehabilitation and construction of infrastructure across formations, units, and barracks nationwide, regular payment of allowances for soldiers in operational theaters, free airlifting for troops on leave and free medical evacuation for injured personnel, upgrading of military hospitals and medical centers, injection of combat enablers into operational theaters, regular training activities for capacity development
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“Contrary to the insinuations in the report, Nigerian Army personnel are highly motivated, and their welfare is top priority under the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff,” Nwachukwu asserted.
The army spokesperson also noted that Nigerian Army recruitments remain highly competitive and oversubscribed, further contradicting claims of widespread dissatisfaction among personnel.
Nwachukwu urged media organizations to avoid becoming tools of disinformation, stating, “The allegation of widespread resignation due to poor welfare was unfounded and irrational.”
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the welfare and morale of its personnel, ensuring they remain motivated and well-equipped to defend the nation.
