The Nigerian Army has officially denied allegations made by a dismissed soldier that troops receive low pay and are forced to buy their own uniforms, boots, and protective gear.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, the Army responded to claims by Ex-Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi,” who alleged in a recent interview that soldiers earn around ₦110,000 monthly and must purchase their own equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets.
The Army categorically stated that Olamilekan was not dismissed for “speaking the truth” but for “persistent and grave acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy.”
“Unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, partisan content creation and misuse of military uniform constitute clear breaches of established regulations. His dismissal followed due process in line with military laws,” the statement read.
On remuneration, the Army said it operates a well-structured and transparent salary system where earnings are determined by rank and years of service. Personnel also receive uniform allowances, Ration Cash Allowance, Habit Allowance, and free feeding arrangements. Troops serving in operational theatres receive additional operational allowances.
“The portrayal of soldiers as receiving no additional benefits beyond basic salary is therefore misleading and inaccurate,” the Army stated.
On claims that soldiers buy their own uniforms and protective equipment, the Army described this as “entirely false.”
“The Nigerian Army prioritises the welfare, safety, and force protection of its personnel. The provision of uniforms, kits, arms, ammunition, and operational gear is an institutional responsibility executed through established logistics systems.”
The Army added that while some personnel may voluntarily supplement issued kits based on personal preference, “such actions are voluntary and do not indicate any systemic failure.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to an operational theatre without the necessary protective equipment. Claims that such gear is only issued during ceremonial visits are deliberate falsehoods intended to mislead the public,” the statement concluded.
