Dismissed Nigerian soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan.webp
The Digest:

A dismissed Nigerian soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan (Soja Boi), has alleged that military personnel purchase their own uniforms, boots, and bulletproof vests with personal funds despite modest salaries. Speaking on the Honest Brunch Podcast, he said his last salary was N109,000, up from N51,000 before a February increase. He claimed a uniform costs about N55,000 and boots up to N60,000, often exceeding monthly pay. He also alleged that bulletproof vests and helmets are only provided during visits by high-ranking officials.

Key Points:
  • Soldiers fighting insurgents may lack basic protective gear unless they buy it themselves.
  • Uniforms and boots can cost more than a soldier's monthly salary.
  • Soldiers are deployed for over four years despite standard two-year rotation timelines.
  • The dismissed soldier claims his arrest and dismissal followed a viral video criticising military treatment.
  • The Army spokesperson said she would issue a formal statement later.
Sources: Punch Newspapers