Army debunks report on troops’ poor welfare

The Nigerian Army says its troops deployed in various operational theatres across the country are properly and adequately fed with good meals.

The Director, Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Nwachukwu said the viral video on social media alleging that soldiers of 159 Battalion in Kanama, Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe, were being poorly fed, was false and malicious.

He said that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lit.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, ordered an investigation headed by the Commander Sector 2 Operation HADIN KAI to ascertain the veracity of the claim with a view to address any problem of poor feeding in the unit.

According to him, it is crucial to clarify that the video in question was not created by soldiers of 159 Battalion, but was rather recorded by a police officer stationed with the troops deployed in Geidam.

“Contrary to the claim made in the video, no personnel in that location was served substandard meal as shown in the video.

“Preliminary investigation has also revealed that the police officer who recorded and shared the video did so with an ulterior motive yet to be uncovered by the investigation.

“It is anticipated to be unraveled during further investigation.

“It is expedient to unambiguously state that the leadership of the army places premium on the welfare and well-being of troops and their families to ensure that they are adequately rewarded and motivated,” he said.

Nwachukwu said the COAS had continued to show undeniable passion and commitment to the well-being of soldiers, particularly those deployed in the frontlines.

According to him, the COAS recognised that the troops are making priceless sacrifices in defence of the nation and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens.

He said it was evident in the several welfare schemes berthed and currently being implemented by the army chief.

The welfare schemes, according to him, include an increase in the Ration Cash Allowance, prompt medical evacuation of wounded in action soldiers for both foreign and local treatments and commencement of payment of the backlog of Group Life Insurance Scheme that had accumulated since 2012.