The Nigerian Army has dismissed allegations made by a former soldier, Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi,” describing them as false and capable of misleading the public.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, the Army said it was compelled to respond following a viral interview in which the dismissed soldier raised concerns about welfare, salaries, and the provision of uniforms and protective equipment.
The controversy began after Olamilekan alleged in the interview that soldiers were poorly paid and often had to purchase their own uniforms and protective gear, including boots and bulletproof vests.
Reacting, the Army firmly rejected the claims, stating that “the claim that soldiers are required to purchase uniforms and protective equipment… is entirely false,” adding that such assertions misrepresent the realities within the force.
On the circumstances surrounding his dismissal, the military clarified that Olamilekan was not punished for expressing opinions or “speaking the truth,” but for repeated acts of misconduct.
“The Nigerian Army categorically states that Mr. Olamilekan was not dismissed for ‘speaking the truth’… He was dismissed following persistent and grave acts of indiscipline,” the statement said.
It explained that his offences included violations of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy, unauthorised media appearances, and the misuse of military identity—actions deemed inconsistent with military regulations.
Addressing welfare concerns, the Army maintained that it operates a structured and transparent salary system tied to rank and years of service, as outlined in official military guidelines.
“In addition to consolidated monthly salaries, personnel are entitled to uniform allowances and other allowances… paid directly into their accounts,” the statement noted.
The Army further stated that troops deployed to operational areas receive extra support, including ration allowances and mission-specific benefits, particularly those serving in high-risk zones such as counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.
Dismissing claims about inadequate equipment, the military stressed that the supply of uniforms, arms, and protective gear is handled through established logistics systems.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no soldier is deployed to an operational theatre without the necessary protective equipment,” it said, warning that contrary narratives could undermine morale and public confidence.
While acknowledging that some personnel may choose to supplement issued kits for personal comfort, the Army said such actions are voluntary and do not indicate any systemic failure.
Reaffirming its stance, the military urged the public to disregard what it described as misleading allegations, emphasizing its commitment to discipline, accountability, and the welfare of its personnel.