The Nigerian Army has responded to recent media reports suggesting mass resignations of soldiers due to corruption and low morale. The Army asserts that voluntary retirement and discharge of personnel are standard procedures, as outlined in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for both officers and soldiers.
Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, clarified in a statement on Sunday that the recent reports were misleading and aimed at creating discord and discrediting the Nigerian Army. He emphasized that service in the Nigerian Army is voluntary, and personnel are permitted to disengage according to established procedures.
“Service in the Nigerian Army, like most global militaries, is voluntary. Therefore, personnel can disengage at their discretion following laid down procedures. This process is orderly and routine, ensuring that those who leave can properly manage their entitlements, pensions, and gratuities,” Nwachukwu stated.
Nwachukwu criticized the media reports for lacking thorough investigation and failing to verify the actual reasons for personnel discharge, which include voluntary retirement, medical reasons, and pursuit of other interests. He dismissed the claims of mass resignations due to welfare issues as inaccurate and not reflective of the Army’s current state.
He highlighted the competitive nature of Nigerian Army recruitments and reassured that personnel morale is high, with welfare being a priority under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. Nwachukwu cited initiatives such as the Affordable Housing Option for All Soldiers Scheme (AHOOAS) and ongoing infrastructure improvements as examples of the Army’s commitment to enhancing personnel well-being.
Further, he noted that allowances are consistently paid, and soldiers receive free airlifting for leave, medical evacuations, and treatment upgrades. The Army is also investing in training and combat enablers to ensure operational effectiveness.
Nwachukwu urged media organizations to avoid spreading disinformation and affirmed the Army’s dedication to the welfare and motivation of its personnel, ensuring they are well-equipped to perform their duties in defending the nation.