A mass resignation threatens the Nigerian Armed Forces due to proposed changes in the Revised Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024. The policy extends promotion timelines for Direct Short Service (DSS) officers, causing discontent and potential legal challenges over perceived discrimination and undermining morale.
A significant number of officers in the Nigerian Armed Forces may soon resign due to the proposed Revised Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024. This policy, pending presidential approval, introduces changes that many officers find unfavorable, particularly those who joined the service after university through the Direct Short Service (DSS) program.
The contentious proposal extends the promotion timeline for DSS officers, requiring them to serve longer in their ranks compared to their counterparts from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). For instance, while NDA officers spend five years on a rank, DSS officers must serve seven years. The same disparity applies to higher ranks, exacerbating frustrations among DSS officers.
Aggrieved officers argue that this policy is discriminatory and undermines morale and unity within the armed forces. They contend that the extended promotion periods could lead to a decline in motivation and cohesion, as DSS officers, who often bring specialized skills, feel undervalued and unfairly treated. This could also deter highly skilled professionals from joining the military, opting instead for civilian careers where their expertise is more readily acknowledged.
Critics of the proposed policy highlight that it disrupts the principles of meritocracy, as promotions would be based on the method of entry into the service rather than performance and competence. They warn that such a policy might expose the military to legal and ethical challenges.
Drawing comparisons with the US and UK military systems, which emphasize merit and performance regardless of the commissioning source, the aggrieved officers urge the Nigerian armed forces to adopt similar practices to ensure fairness and maintain a motivated, professional military force.
At the time of reporting, the Acting Director of Defence Information and the Director of Information, at Ministry of Defence, had not responded to inquiries regarding the proposed changes.
