By Philip Nwosu
The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations made by a former soldier, Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi”, describing them as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the force, the Army clarified that Olamilekan was not dismissed for expressing opinions but for repeated acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy.
According to the Army spokesperson, Colonel Appolonia Anele, his dismissal followed due process in line with the Armed Forces Act and established military regulations, which prohibit unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, partisan content creation, and misuse of military uniform.
Reacting to claims on soldiers’ welfare and remuneration, the Army said it operates a structured and transparent salary system guided by the Manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA). It noted that personnel receive salaries based on rank and years of service, alongside uniform allowances and other entitlements paid directly into their accounts.
The statement further explained that troops on operations or deployed outside their units are entitled to additional benefits, including ration cash allowance, habit allowance, and free feeding arrangements. Personnel in operational theatres such as Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East also receive operational allowances and mission-specific support.
On allegations that soldiers purchase their own uniforms and protective gear, the Army described the claims as entirely false. It maintained that the provision of uniforms, arms, ammunition, and protective equipment remains the responsibility of the institution through its logistics and ordnance systems.
While acknowledging that some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits for personal comfort, the Army stressed that such actions are voluntary and do not reflect any systemic shortfall.
It also dismissed suggestions that troops are deployed without adequate protective gear, stating that no soldier is sent to operational theatres without the necessary equipment. Claims that such items are only issued during ceremonial visits were described as deliberate attempts to misinform the public.
The Army urged members of the public to disregard the allegations, warning that the spread of unverified information could undermine troop morale and national security efforts.
Reaffirming its commitment to discipline, accountability, and the welfare of its personnel, the Nigerian Army also called on the media to verify information from credible official sources before publication.
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