Lie! Our soldiers don’t buy uniforms, they are well equipped -Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Army has denied claims that its personnel purchased uniforms and protective equipment with private funds, describing the claims as false and misleading.

In a statement on Tuesday, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said the military is providing all necessary equipment and ensuring troops are adequately equipped.

The response follows a viral interview conducted by a former soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, known as Soja Boi, who alleged that personnel purchased uniforms, boots and bulletproof vests despite the low pay.

The Army stated that it operates a structured salary system, noting that personnel receive a combined monthly salary along with uniform and other allowances, as well as additional allowances for those deployed in the operational space.

It reads in part, “In addition to the consolidated monthly salary, personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other allowances, which are periodically paid directly into their accounts.

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“Personnel serving in the operational space… are also provided with operational allowances and other mission-specific privileges designed to support their well-being and enhance operational effectiveness,” the statement added.

They also rejected claims that soldiers procure their own equipment, and insisted that uniforms, protective equipment, weapons and ammunition be supplied through existing logistics systems.

While acknowledging that some personnel may choose to supplement issued equipment for personal convenience, the Army emphasizes that such actions are voluntary and do not reflect a systemic failure.

The military further stated that no soldier should be deployed without adequate protective equipment, and urged the public to ignore what they described as baseless accusations that could damage morale and national security.

“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to the operational space without the necessary protective equipment.

“The public is asked to ignore these baseless allegations… The public is urged not to exaggerate unverified claims that could undermine these institutions,” the statement said.