The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations that its personnel purchase uniforms and protective equipment with personal funds, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement on Tuesday, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said the military provides all necessary kits and ensures troops are properly equipped.
The response followed a viral interview by a former soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as Soja Boi, who alleged that personnel buy uniforms, boots and bulletproof vests despite low pay.
The Army maintained that it operates a structured salary system, noting that personnel receive consolidated monthly pay alongside uniform and other allowances, as well as additional benefits for those deployed to operational theatres.
It partly reads, “In addition to consolidated monthly salaries, personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other allowances, which are periodically paid directly into their accounts.
“Personnel serving in operational theatres… are also paid operational allowances and other mission-specific entitlements designed to support their welfare and enhance operational effectiveness,” the statement added.
It also rejected claims that soldiers procure their own gear, insisting that uniforms, protective equipment, arms and ammunition are supplied through established logistics systems.
While acknowledging that some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits for personal comfort, the Army stressed that such actions are voluntary and do not reflect systemic failure.
The military further stated that no soldier is deployed without adequate protective equipment, urging the public to disregard what it described as baseless allegations capable of undermining morale and national security.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to an operational theatre without the necessary protective equipment.
“The public is requested to disregard these baseless allegations… Citizens are urged to refrain from amplifying unverified claims that may undermine these institutions,” the statement said.
The Army added that Olamilekan was dismissed over disciplinary breaches, including violations of social media policy, and not for expressing his views.
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