Nigerian Army dismisses welfare allegations by ex-soldier Olamilekan

The Nigerian Army has rejected allegations made by a dismissed soldier, Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, describing his claims on troop welfare, remuneration and provision of equipment as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said the Army’s attention had been drawn to a widely circulated interview featuring Mr Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi,” in which he criticised conditions of service within the force.

The Army said the claims required clarification to prevent the public from being misinformed.

Dismissal followed due process

Contrary to suggestions that the ex-soldier was punished for “speaking the truth,” the Army said Mr Olamilekan was dismissed for repeated acts of indiscipline and violations of military regulations.

It stated that his actions included breaches of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy, unauthorised media engagements, and the commercialisation of his military identity.

The statement noted that “like all professional militaries,” the Nigerian Army operates under a strict code of conduct guided by the Armed Forces Act, adding that his dismissal followed due process in line with established rules.

Remuneration structure defended

Addressing concerns over welfare, the Army maintained that its remuneration system is structured and transparent, with salaries determined by rank and years of service as outlined in the Manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

It added that personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other benefits, which are paid directly into their accounts.

The Army further explained that troops deployed for operations or assigned duties outside their base receive additional entitlements, including Ration Cash Allowance and Habit Allowance, alongside free feeding arrangements.

Personnel serving in operational theatres such as Operation HADIN KAI in the North-east, it said, also receive operational allowances and mission-specific benefits.

“The portrayal of soldiers as receiving no additional benefits beyond basic salary is therefore misleading and inaccurate,” the statement said.

Equipment provision claims rejected

The Army also dismissed claims that soldiers are required to purchase their own uniforms or protective gear, including bulletproof vests and helmets.

It said the provision of uniforms, kits, arms and operational equipment remains an institutional responsibility managed through established logistics systems.

According to the statement, ordnance units are responsible for procurement, storage and distribution to ensure personnel are adequately equipped.

While acknowledging that some soldiers may choose to supplement issued kits for personal comfort, the Army stressed that such decisions are voluntary and do not indicate systemic shortcomings.

It described as “false and reckless” claims that troops are deployed without protective gear, warning that such narratives could undermine morale and public confidence.

Call for public caution

The Army urged the public to disregard what it termed “baseless allegations,” noting that they were capable of generating unwarranted sympathy and weakening national security efforts.

It also called on citizens to avoid amplifying unverified claims and encouraged the media to rely on credible official sources when reporting on military affairs.

Reaffirming its commitment to discipline, accountability and troop welfare, the Nigerian Army said its personnel remain dedicated to safeguarding the nation despite ongoing security challenges.

“The public is therefore urged to treat these claims with the disregard they deserve,” the statement added.