By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has strongly refuted claims published by Sahara Reporters alleging widespread dissatisfaction among its personnel over delayed promotions and stagnant pay under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. Describing the report as both misleading and malicious, the Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the welfare and professional advancement of its troops.
In an official statement released on Saturday, July 26, 2025, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, categorically dismissed the report as false and devoid of credibility. She stated that promotions within the Nigerian Army are governed by rigorous and transparent procedures clearly outlined in the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) for Soldiers, Ratings, and Airmen 2024.
“Contrary to the falsehood peddled by Sahara Reporters, promotions in the Nigerian Army are strictly guided by laid down procedures and merit, as well as availability of vacancies and other established criteria,” Lieutenant Colonel Anele said. “According to paragraph 04.01 of HTACOS, promotion is granted in recognition of hard work, professionalism, and efficiency. Every promotion is subject to stringent conditions such as performance reports, completion of required courses, medical fitness, service duration, and recommendation by a duly constituted Promotion Board.”
She further noted that paragraphs 04.02 and 04.04 of HTACOS provide detailed timelines and benchmarks for promotion from the rank of Private to Army Warrant Officer, emphasizing that these guidelines are transparent, structured, and consistent with global military best practices. “No soldier can bypass these processes, and any change in timelines is strictly tied to these professional standards, not to arbitrary decisions or personal discretion, as erroneously suggested in the publication,” she added.
The Army spokesperson also debunked claims of stagnated pay under General Oluyede’s leadership, clarifying that adjustments to the military pay structure fall under the constitutional jurisdiction of relevant federal authorities and not within the unilateral control of the Nigerian Army.
Highlighting tangible achievements under the current leadership, Lieutenant Colonel Anele disclosed that since assuming office, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has made the welfare of personnel a top priority under his “Soldier First” concept. Among the landmark initiatives was the doubling of the Ration Cash Allowance, which directly enhanced troop sustenance. The Army Chief also expanded the Nigerian Army Welfare Loan Scheme, offering troops access to low-interest loans for small business development and asset acquisition with minimal bureaucracy.
“These are among several other welfare programmes and interventions rolled out by the Chief of Army Staff to improve the lives of personnel and their families,” she said.
The Army expressed deep concern over what it described as Sahara Reporters’ persistent anti-military bias and history of publishing sensational and unverified reports. “Their sources remain anonymous because they are either non-existent or unfit to serve the truth,” the statement read. “The public is advised to disregard the publication in its entirety, as it lacks both substance and credibility.”
Reaffirming its core values, the Nigerian Army stated that it remains a professional and disciplined institution driven by due process, transparency, and excellence. “We will not be distracted by propaganda from discredited platforms seeking to destabilize the morale and cohesion of our gallant troops,” the statement concluded.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to continue delivering on its mandate with integrity and unwavering dedication in the service of the nation.
