Nigerian Army Responds to Claims of Mass Resignations: Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Procedures
The Nigerian Army has addressed recent reports of widespread soldier resignations, asserting that such discharges are part of routine procedures outlined in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service. Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, provided this clarification in a statement issued on Sunday from Abuja.
Nwachukwu criticized recent media reports suggesting that soldiers were resigning en masse due to issues like corruption and low morale. He described these reports as misleading and aimed at undermining the Nigerian Army’s reputation and the dedication of its personnel.
He emphasized that military service in Nigeria, as with many other countries, is voluntary. This means that soldiers can choose to leave the service in accordance with established procedures. Nwachukwu explained that the process of discharge is orderly and ensures that departing personnel can properly handle their entitlements, pensions, and other benefits.
The army spokesman dismissed claims that the resignations were linked to welfare problems, stating that the reports were not based on thorough investigation. The reasons for discharge can include voluntary resignation, medical conditions, pursuit of other career opportunities, and community service.
Nwachukwu also noted that the Nigerian Army’s recruitment process is highly competitive, and personnel welfare remains a top priority under the leadership of Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. Recent initiatives, such as the Affordable Housing Option for All Soldiers Scheme (AHOOAS), demonstrate the army’s commitment to improving living standards and providing dignified post-service housing for soldiers.
The Nigerian Army is also engaged in extensive infrastructure upgrades and regular payments of allowances, as well as offering free airlifting for leaves and medical evacuations. Military hospitals are being upgraded to better serve personnel and their families, and training programs are in place to enhance the capabilities of both officers and soldiers.
Nwachukwu urged media organizations to refrain from spreading misinformation and reiterated the army’s dedication to maintaining high morale and effective operational capacity among its personnel.
