September 8, 2024 — The Nigerian Army has strongly refuted recent reports alleging a mass resignation of soldiers due to low morale and corruption within the ranks. The denial came in a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who described the claims as misleading and aimed at tarnishing the image of the military institution.
Nwachukwu emphasized that the reports are a deliberate attempt to sow disaffection among the public and discredit the patriotic service of the Nigerian Army personnel. “The report about the mass resignation is not only misleading but also a deliberate effort to denigrate the reputation of the Nigerian Army and the selfless service of its personnel,” Nwachukwu stated.
According to him, service in the Nigerian Army is entirely voluntary, with individuals free to disengage from service in accordance with established procedures. “The Nigerian Army operates on a voluntary basis, not through conscription. Personnel are at liberty to disengage at will, following laid down protocols,” he explained.
Nwachukwu also dismissed the claim that resignations were linked to poor welfare, describing it as “unfounded” and “irrational.” He clarified that the discharge process in the Nigerian Army is routine and follows standard procedures outlined in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for both officers and soldiers. “Personnel are allowed to disengage voluntarily or mandatorily from time to time, and this is a normal occurrence in any organized military institution,” he said.
He further explained that the routine compilation and release of names of personnel preparing to disengage allows for adequate processing of their entitlements, including pensions, gratuities, and other benefits accrued over their period of service. “The discharge of personnel is handled in an orderly manner to ensure that those leaving the Army are well prepared and their benefits fully processed,” Nwachukwu added.
Reacting to specific allegations of low morale and corruption within the Army, the spokesperson dismissed them as baseless. “Due diligence was not conducted in investigating the reasons for the personnel discharges, and the claims of low morale and corruption are spurious,” he said.
Nwachukwu underscored that the welfare of soldiers remains a top priority under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja. “The Nigerian Army remains fully committed to the welfare of its personnel, and the leadership has ensured that soldiers are well-motivated to carry out their duties,” he asserted.
In addressing the media, Major General Nwachukwu urged journalists to be more responsible in their reporting, emphasizing the importance of verifying information before publication. “The media should avoid becoming tools for disinformation and should ensure that they verify facts thoroughly before disseminating such reports,” he cautioned.
He reiterated the Army’s unwavering commitment to upholding professionalism and ensuring the security and welfare of its personnel, while also maintaining transparency in its operations.
The Nigerian Army’s swift rebuttal of the allegations reflects its determination to uphold its image and morale amidst growing concerns over sensationalism in the media. The Army’s leadership continues to focus on the welfare of its personnel, ensuring that the institution remains strong and capable of handling any internal or external challenges facing Nigeria.
