Military says dismissed ex-soldier was sacked for indiscipline, not whistleblowing, as it defends pay structure, allowances, and supply of uniforms and combat gear.

The Nigerian Army has firmly rejected allegations of poor welfare, low pay, and inadequate equipment made by dismissed ex-Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi.”

In a statement released Tuesday, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, described the claims as “false, misleading, and designed to misinform the public,” following their circulation on social media after the former soldier’s interview.

According to the Army, Olamilekan was not dismissed for “speaking the truth” or criticising authorities, but for repeated acts of indiscipline, including violations of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy.

“Like all professional militaries, the Nigerian Army operates under a strict Code of Conduct and the Armed Forces Act,” Anele stated. “Unauthorised media engagements, commercial use of military identity, partisan content creation, and misuse of uniform are clear breaches of military regulations.”

The Army also pushed back against claims of poor remuneration, insisting that it operates a structured and transparent salary system based on rank and years of service, as outlined in the Armed Forces’ financial guidelines.

Beyond basic salaries, the military noted that personnel receive uniform allowances and other benefits paid directly into their accounts. Troops deployed on operations or assigned outside their units are also entitled to additional support, including Ration Cash Allowance, Habitat Allowance, and free feeding.

Soldiers serving in active theatres such as Operation HADIN KAI in the North East, the Army added, receive operational allowances and mission-specific benefits aimed at boosting welfare and operational efficiency.

Addressing allegations that soldiers purchase their own uniforms and protective gear, including bulletproof vests and helmets, the Army dismissed the claim as “entirely false.”

“The welfare, safety, and protection of our personnel remain a top priority,” Anele said. “The provision of uniforms, kits, arms, ammunition, and operational equipment is an institutional responsibility handled through established logistics systems.”

The Army maintained that it remains committed to upholding professional standards while ensuring the well-being of its personnel.