The Nigerian Army has firmly dismissed a report alleging delayed promotions and stagnant pay for military personnel under the leadership of Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), describing the claims as false, misleading, and malicious.
In a statement signed by Lt. Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Army emphasized that promotions within the force are strictly based on merit, availability of vacancies, and other standardized criteria as outlined in the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024 for Soldiers, Ratings, and Airmen.
“Contrary to the falsehood peddled by Sahara Reporters, promotions in the Nigerian Army follow laid-down procedures and are never subject to personal discretion or arbitrary decisions.
“They are granted in recognition of hard work, professionalism, and efficiency, and guided by detailed provisions of HTACOS, particularly paragraphs 04.01, 04.02, and 04.04,” the statement read.
The Army further stressed that these guidelines provide a transparent and globally accepted framework for career progression across all ranks, from Private to Army Warrant Officer.
All promotions, it noted, are contingent on factors such as performance appraisals, medical fitness, successful completion of requisite courses, length of service, and endorsement by a duly constituted Promotion Board.
On claims regarding stagnant pay, the Army clarified that the determination of salaries and adjustments is the constitutional responsibility of relevant federal institutions and not the exclusive remit of the military leadership.
The Army said that Oluyede has taken proactive steps to enhance the welfare of personnel since assuming office.
“These include the doubling of the Ration Cash Allowance for soldiers and an overhaul of the Nigerian Army Welfare Loan Scheme to make it more accessible and affordable.
“The scheme is designed to empower personnel through support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and enable asset acquisition with minimal bureaucracy and low interest rates.
“These interventions are part of the Chief of Army Staff’s ‘Soldier First’ concept, which places troop welfare at the core of Army leadership priorities,” the statement added.
While condemning the report for what it described as a long-standing pattern of anti-military bias and sensationalism, the Army accused the platform of relying on faceless, unverified sources to discredit the institution and sow disaffection among troops.
“The public is advised to disregard the publication in its entirety, as it lacks both substance and credibility,” the Army said.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the well-being of its personnel, the Nigerian Army stated it will not be distracted by propaganda aimed at weakening troop morale or disrupting internal cohesion.
“The Nigerian Army remains a disciplined and professional institution, committed to the service of the nation and guided by due process,” the statement noted.
