On Monday, the Nigerian Army explained that recent reports claiming that the personnel had resigned because of poor welfare and low morale were false.
The security agent’s statement explained that joining the army in the country has always been a voluntary exercise, and personnel can tender their resignation at any time, as the law states.
The statement went on to state that the reports claiming that the members and officers had decided to resign due to the high level of corruption, low morale, and poor welfare were all false, explaining that the statements had been made to tarnish the image of the Nigerian Army and its personnel.
The statement noted that resignation by the officers and personnel has been stipulated in the law, and it is applicable in other parts of the world where participation in the military is voluntary. The statement further noted that such practice was included in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for both officers and soldiers,
Stattemt explained that the discharge of officer, which is seen as a routine, is handled in an organized and procedural manner; according to the statement, the process is handed in a way where personnel are allowed to move on smoothly with all their entitlements paid, which includes pension and gratuities.
The statement also noted that the publication of the names of persons who have been disengaged voluntarily or mandatorily is a standard practice worldwide, which is against several reports in the media.
The statement explained that the insinuation that soldiers are resigning in large numbers due to poor welfare is false and does not represent the truth.
The statement further explained that discharges from the Nigerian Army can take place for several reasons, which incldes voluntary exits, medical grounds, or personal pursuit of other career opportunities.
The statement noted that the recruitment into the Nigerian Army remains highly competitive, with applicants surpassing the number of slots available, which contradicts any comment of dissatisfaction by the personnel.
The army also noted that the force under the leadership of Taoreed Lagbaja has always protected the welfare officers, and that has presented remarkable progress in the living conditions and the lives of the officers. Some of the new initiatives, according to the statement, include an affordable housing option for all soldiers scheme (AHOOAS)
The statement disclosed that the scheme, which is nationwide, had helped the personnel to own homes and secure dignified post-service accommodation, which has shown the readiness of the army to provide good welfare for the soldiers after service.
It was also disclosed that the army is currently undertaking extensive renovations and constructing new infrastructure across military formations, units, and barracks to ensure a conducive environment for personnel and their families.
The army noted that the officers in the country have benefited from the regular and timely payment of allowances for soldiers on deployment.
Free air transport for personnel on leave and medical evacuation services for injured troops, both domestically and abroad, is also being ensured, the army said
It was also disclosed that the military hospitals are being upgraded to enhance healthcare services for soldiers and their families.
