Nigerian Army Debunks Reports of Mass Resignation, Clarifies Discharge Process

Nigerian Army Debunks Reports of Mass Resignation, Clarifies Discharge Process

The Nigerian Army has refuted claims of mass resignations by soldiers, labelling the reports as misleading and a deliberate attempt to tarnish its image.

According to the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the voluntary retirement and discharge of personnel are routine and follow established procedures under the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for both officers and soldiers.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, Nwachukwu criticised the recent media publications alleging that soldiers were resigning en masse due to low morale and corruption. He described the reports as baseless and aimed at creating disaffection within the ranks.

“Service in the Nigerian Army, like most militaries globally, is voluntary, not conscription. Personnel are free to disengage at will, in accordance with laid down procedures, and discharge from the army is handled in an organised manner,” Nwachukwu said.

He explained that the process allows soldiers to adequately prepare for retirement, ensuring that entitlements such as pensions and gratuities are processed without disruption. Nwachukwu emphasized that such discharges occur regularly and that the suggestion of a crisis in the army was a misrepresentation of reality.

“Contrary to the insinuations in the report, Nigerian Army personnel are highly motivated, and their welfare is a top priority under the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja,” he added.

The army spokesman highlighted several welfare initiatives, including the Affordable Housing Option for All Soldiers Scheme (AHOOAS), which enables soldiers to own homes and ensure a dignified post-service life. He also pointed to ongoing infrastructure improvements, regular payment of allowances, free airlifting for soldiers on leave, and access to upgraded medical facilities.

Nwachukwu urged media organisations to refrain from spreading disinformation, reiterating that the army remains committed to the well-being and morale of its personnel. “The allegation of widespread resignation due to poor welfare is unfounded and irrational,” he concluded.