Yemi Obafemi
The Nigerian Army has dismissed online reports suggesting that soldiers are threatening mutiny over salaries and allowances, describing the claims as false, misleading, and deliberately sensational.
In a statement on Monday, signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the Army said the reports, particularly those published by Sahara Reporters, were designed to undermine public confidence and national security.
“At no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Nigerian Army,” the statement said.
“Mutiny is a grave offence under military law and alien to the ethos, discipline, and professionalism of Nigerian Army personnel, who remain loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.”
The statement noted that the reports relied solely on anonymous, unverifiable claims circulated through non-official channels, which do not represent the views or conduct of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.
It emphasized that personnel are trained to channel grievances through established military procedures rather than public platforms.
The Army also clarified that promotion increments represent only one component of military remuneration.
“Military pay comprises consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational allowances, field and hardship allowances, and other entitlements that vary by deployment, qualifications, and responsibilities,” the statement explained.
Highlighting ongoing welfare reforms, the Army said it continues to collaborate with the Armed Forces and relevant government authorities to implement structured improvements, including periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical care, and insurance packages for troops and their families.
The statement further noted that the Chief of Army Staff, on assuming duty, has initiated positive engagements with appropriate authorities regarding troop welfare, which are already yielding progressive outcomes.
Contrary to claims of neglect, the Nigerian Army stated that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces, particularly amid evolving security challenges.
“The Nigerian Army remains a cohesive, disciplined, and professional force, fully focused on its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and supporting internal security operations,” the statement said.
“Attempts to portray the institution as unstable or lawless are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to national security. The public is urged to disregard such unfounded reports and rely on official communication channels for accurate information concerning the Armed Forces, especially the Nigerian Army.”
