By: Adeosun Ewatomi
The Nigerian Army has refuted claims of mass resignations attributed to poor welfare conditions within its ranks. According to the Army, voluntary retirements and discharges are regular procedures in line with established guidelines outlined in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers and Soldiers.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, clarified that recent media reports suggesting widespread resignations due to issues like corruption and low morale were misleading and aimed at creating discord and undermining the dedicated service of personnel and the reputation of the Nigerian army.
Nwachukwu emphasized that service in the Nigerian Army, like in other military forces worldwide, is voluntary, allowing individuals the freedom to disengage as per established protocols. Discharges from the Army are conducted systematically and not in a haphazard manner, ensuring that personnel have the opportunity to prepare for their departures, including securing entitlements, benefits, pensions, and gratuities accrued during their service.
He criticized the hasty and careless nature of the report, highlighting that the reasons for personnel discharges are varied and confidential, ranging from voluntary resignations to medical reasons, pursuit of other career paths, community service, among others. Nwachukwu dismissed the notion that soldiers are leaving en masse due to welfare issues, asserting that the recruitment process in the Nigerian Army is competitive and oversubscribed.
The statement underscored the commitment of the current leadership, led by Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, to enhancing the welfare and well-being of personnel and their families. Various initiatives, such as the Affordable Housing Option for All Soldiers Scheme, have been introduced to provide post-service accommodation options and improve living standards.
Additionally, the Nigerian Army is undergoing significant infrastructure rehabilitation and construction projects to create conducive environments for troops and their families. Regular allowances, airlifting for leaves, medical evacuations, improvements in medical facilities, and capacity development through training programs are also highlighted as areas where the Army is focusing to ensure the readiness and morale of its personnel.
Nwachukwu concluded by dismissing the unfounded claims of widespread resignations due to poor welfare conditions and urged media organizations to avoid spreading misinformation. He reaffirmed the Army's dedication to prioritizing the welfare and motivation of its personnel to effectively carry out their duties in safeguarding the nation.
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