The Nigerian Army has rejected allegations of poor welfare, inadequate pay and lack of equipment made by a dismissed soldier.
The reaction followed a viral interview featuring former lance corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi”, who appeared on The Honest Bunch Podcast alongside activist Omoyele Sowore.
In the interview, Olamilekan claimed his earnings were “extremely low”, stating that the last salary he received before his dismissal was N109,000. He also raised concerns about soldiers’ welfare, including pay, uniforms and protective gear.
He further alleged that his dismissal was linked to a video he shared last year, where he called on politicians to enlist their children in the military.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, the Nigerian Army said Olamilekan was not dismissed for “speaking the truth” or for “expressing opinions on political leadership”, but due to “persistent and grave acts of indiscipline”, including violations of the Armed Forces’ social media policy.
“Like all professional militaries, the Nigerian Army operates under a strict Code of Conduct and the Armed Forces Act. Unauthorised media appearances, commercialisation of military identity, partisan content creation and misuse of military uniform constitute clear breaches of established regulations. His dismissal followed due process in line with military laws,” the statement reads.
Addressing concerns about pay, the army stated that it runs a structured and transparent salary system based on rank and years of service, as outlined in the Manual of Financial Administration for Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“In addition to consolidated monthly salaries, personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other allowances, which are periodically paid directly into their accounts.”
The army added that troops on operations or deployed outside their base receive additional benefits such as ration cash, hardship allowances and free meals, while those in operational theatres like Operation Hadin Kai are provided with mission-specific support.
It described claims that soldiers receive no benefits beyond their salaries as misleading.
“The claim that soldiers are required to purchase uniforms and protective equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets, is entirely false. The Nigerian Army prioritises the welfare, safety, and force protection of its personnel,” the statement added.
“The provision of uniforms, kits, arms, ammunition, and operational gear is an institutional responsibility executed through established logistics systems. Dedicated ordnance units oversee the procurement, storage, and issuance of these items to ensure troops are adequately equipped for operations.
“While some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits based on personal preference and comfort, such actions are voluntary and do not indicate any systemic failure.”
The army further described claims that soldiers operate without protective gear as “false and reckless”, warning that such assertions could damage public confidence and troop morale.
It insisted that no personnel are deployed without the required equipment and dismissed suggestions that gear is only provided during official visits as “deliberate falsehoods”.