The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations that its personnel purchase uniforms and protective equipment with their own money, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said the Army remains fully responsible for providing soldiers with all necessary kits and operational gear.
The reaction followed a viral interview by a former soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi,” who alleged that troops buy uniforms, boots, and bulletproof vests despite earning modest salaries.
Responding, Anele insisted that such claims do not reflect the reality within the military.
“The claim that soldiers are required to purchase uniforms and protective equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets, is entirely false,” she said.
“The provision of uniforms, kits, arms, ammunition, and operational gear is an institutional responsibility executed through established logistics systems.”
She explained that, beyond their salaries, soldiers are entitled to several allowances paid directly into their accounts.
“In addition to consolidated monthly salaries, personnel receive uniform allowances and other benefits periodically,” she stated.
“Those deployed to operational theatres also enjoy operational allowances and mission-specific entitlements designed to support their welfare.”
The Army further clarified that while some personnel may choose to buy additional items for personal comfort, such decisions are optional and do not indicate any failure on the part of the institution.
“Some individuals may supplement issued kits based on preference, but this is voluntary and not a reflection of any systemic shortcoming,” Anele added.
Reassuring the public, the Army maintained that no soldier is sent to the battlefield without adequate protection.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to an operational theatre without the necessary protective equipment,” she said.
The military authority also urged Nigerians to disregard what it described as unverified claims, warning that such narratives could negatively affect troop morale and national security.
“The public is advised to refrain from amplifying baseless allegations capable of undermining confidence in our institutions,” Anele noted.
On the status of Olamilekan, the Army clarified that his dismissal was due to disciplinary issues rather than his public comments.
“He was not dismissed for expressing opinions but for persistent acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy,” the statement added.
