Nigerian Army rejects mutiny rumours, says soldiers remain disciplined amid welfare reforms

The Nigerian Army has rejected allegations that soldiers were threatening to mutiny over unpaid salaries and allowances, describing the report as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and undermine national security.

In a statement released on Monday, the Army dismissed an online publication by Sahara Reporters as false and sensational. The statement, signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, said the report relied on anonymous and unverifiable claims circulating on non-official channels.

“At no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Nigerian Army,” the statement said. “Mutiny is a grave offence under military law and alien to the ethos, discipline and professionalism of Nigerian Army personnel.”

The Army emphasised that soldiers are trained to follow established procedures for raising grievances, rather than airing complaints in public. It said the claims do not reflect the conduct or disposition of officers and soldiers, who remain loyal to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief.

The statement also clarified that promotion increments represent only a part of military pay and should not be taken as the full measure of a soldier’s earnings. Military remuneration, the Army said, includes consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational allowances, field and hardship allowances, and other entitlements that vary by deployment and responsibility.

Highlighting ongoing welfare initiatives, the Army said it is working with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant government authorities to implement reforms aimed at improving conditions for troops. These reforms include periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical care and insurance coverage for soldiers and their families.

The Army further said the Chief of Army Staff has engaged relevant authorities on troop welfare since taking office, with positive outcomes already being recorded.

The statement also defended the Federal Government’s commitment to the military, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has continued to support the armed forces, especially as they confront evolving security challenges.

The Army urged the public to disregard the online report and rely on official communications for accurate information about the service.

The statement concluded by reiterating the Army’s commitment to discipline, professionalism and its constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty.