Nigerian Army has strongly denied reports alleging that its personnel are threatening mutiny over unpaid salaries and allowances, describing the claims as false, misleading and deliberately sensational.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the Army said its attention was drawn to an online publication by Sahara Reporters which alleged that soldiers were planning to revolt over welfare issues.
“We view the report published by Sahara Reporters as false, misleading and deliberately sensational, designed to undermine public confidence and national security,” the Army stated.
It categorically dismissed the claim, stressing that there has been no instance or threat of mutiny within its ranks.
“At no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Nigerian Army. 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 read.
The Army faulted the report for relying on anonymous and unverifiable sources, noting that such claims do not reflect the conduct or views of its officers and soldiers.
“The report relied solemnly on anonymous, unverifiable claims circulated through non-official channels. Such narratives do not represent the views, conduct or disposition of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, who are trained to channel grievances through established military procedures rather than public platforms,” it added.
Clarifying issues around remuneration, the Army explained that military earnings go beyond promotion increments, warning against misrepresenting a single component of pay as total income.
“For avoidance of doubt, it is important to clarify that promotion increments are only one component of military remuneration and should not be misrepresented as total earnings. Military pay comprises consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational allowances, field and hardship allowances and other entitlements that vary by deployment, qualification and responsibilities.”
The statement further highlighted ongoing welfare reforms, stressing that the welfare of troops remains a priority.
“The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant government authorities, continues to implement structured welfare reforms, including periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical care, and insurance packages for troops and their families. Issues relating to allowances are continuously reviewed within approved government frameworks.”
It also revealed that the current Chief of Army Staff has taken proactive steps to improve the condition of personnel since assuming office.
“The Chief of Army Staff on assumption of duty has initiated positive engagements with the appropriate authority on troops welfare. This is already yielding progressive outcomes.”
Dismissing claims of neglect, the Army praised the Federal Government for its continued support of the Armed Forces.
“Contrary to claims of neglect, the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces, particularly in the face of evolving security challenges.”
Reaffirming its professionalism, the Army said it remains focused on its constitutional responsibilities and warned against narratives that portray it as unstable.
“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. Attempts to portray the institution as unstable or lawless are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to national security.”
The public was advised to disregard unverified reports and rely on official communication channels for credible information about the Armed Forces.