The Nigerian Army has issued a strong rebuttal against an online publication alleging that soldiers are planning a mutiny due to dissatisfaction with their salaries, allowances, and general welfare conditions. The military high command has labeled the report a false alarm designed to sow discord and undermine national security.
Official Statement Labels Report as Misleading
In a statement released on Monday, January 19, and titled “Threats of Mutiny: A False Alarm, Nigerian Army Committed to Troop Welfare, Discipline,” the Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, categorically denied the allegations. The statement clarified that the report was based on anonymous and unverifiable claims from non-official channels, which do not reflect the true disposition of army personnel.
“We view the report as false, misleading and deliberately sensational, designed to undermine public confidence and national security,” the statement read. It emphasized that mutiny is a grave offence under military law and is completely alien to the discipline and professionalism of the Nigerian Army.
Breakdown of Military Remuneration and Welfare Efforts
The Army used the opportunity to clarify the structure of military pay, countering what it described as a misrepresentation of soldiers' earnings. It explained that a promotion increment is just one part of a comprehensive remuneration package, which includes:
- Consolidated salaries
- Rank-based allowances
- Operational allowances
- Field and hardship allowances
- Other entitlements tied to specific deployments and responsibilities
The statement further outlined ongoing welfare reforms being implemented in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant government bodies. These reforms include:
- Periodic salary reviews
- Improved accommodation for personnel
- Enhanced operational allowances
- Comprehensive medical care and insurance packages for troops and their families
It was noted that issues related to allowances are being continuously reviewed within approved government frameworks.
Leadership's Commitment and Call for Public Trust
The Army highlighted that upon assuming office, the Chief of Army Staff immediately prioritized troop welfare, initiating engagements with the appropriate authorities. These efforts are reportedly already yielding positive results.
The statement also underscored the Federal Government's commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improving the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces, especially in the face of the nation's evolving security challenges.
Reiterating its loyalty, the Army affirmed that its personnel remain steadfastly loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The public was urged to disregard the unfounded claims and rely solely on official communication channels for accurate information, warning that attempts to portray the institution as unstable are irresponsible and harmful to national security.
