Credit! Sahara Reporters
Mass Resignation Hits Nigerian Army Amidst Poor Welfare and Equipment Issues
Abuja, Nigeria – A significant number of soldiers have reportedly resigned from the Nigerian Army, with many seeking to join military forces in other countries, including the British Army, Ukrainian Army, and other Commonwealth nations. According to sources speaking to SaharaReporters, the mass exodus is largely attributed to poor welfare, inadequate equipment, and a lack of motivation within the ranks of the Nigerian military.
The discontent appears to be most pronounced within the medical corps, with sources indicating that 27 personnel have already resigned, and more are expected to follow as their resignations await approval.
“Soldiers are leaving because the work is no longer sustainable,” a military source told SaharaReporters. “People are running every day to join the British Army, Ukraine, Russia, Commonwealth armies, and the like. That’s what is happening now.”
Another source within the military expressed frustration over the Nigerian government’s failure to provide adequate living conditions, modern weapons, and sufficient compensation to combat the numerous security challenges facing the country. The source also mentioned that many soldiers are hoping for a planned protest to address their grievances.
A document obtained by SaharaReporters, dated August 24, 2024, from the Department of Personnel Management at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, confirms the voluntary discharge of 27 soldiers. The document outlines the procedures for the soldiers’ disengagement, including the recovery of military-controlled items, arms, ammunition, and combat kits before their official exit on November 30, 2024.
Efforts to reach the army spokesman, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, for comments were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls or text messages.
The issue of delayed payments has further compounded the dissatisfaction within the military. A recent internal memo, obtained by SaharaReporters, revealed that the Nigerian government had not paid soldiers their August salaries and allowances. The memo urged soldiers to remain patient while efforts were being made to ensure prompt payment.
Delays in salary and bonus payments are not new in the Nigerian Army. In October 2022, some soldiers voiced their frustration over the delayed payment of salaries and the lack of salary increments for over a decade.
The ongoing resignations and the grievances expressed by the soldiers highlight the growing challenges within the Nigerian Army, raising concerns about the impact on national security and the military’s ability to effectively combat the various threats facing the country.
