According to Sahara Reporters, many Nigerian soldiers have resigned from the Nigerian Army to join other military forces, such as the British Army, the Ukrainian Army, and other Commonwealth nations.
The report blames the mass resignation on poor welfare, inadequate equipment, and a lack of motivation within the Nigerian Army.
Most of the soldiers resigning are from the medical corps. Sahara Reporters also notes that more resignations are expected as they await approval.
Soldiers are frustrated with the Nigerian government’s failure to provide decent living conditions, modern weapons, and adequate compensation to handle non-state actors causing turmoil in the country.
According to the report, a source said: “A set of 27 personnel are leaving and this set is only medical corps. Infantry corps and armored corps are still coming. So many more will leave.
“Soldiers are leaving because the work is no longer sustainable. People are running every day to join British Army, Ukraine, Russia, Commonwealth army and the likes. That’s what is happening now.”
“Even the planned protest, many soldiers are praying it should happen,” another source added.
A document obtained by Sahara Reporters confirms the high number of resignations. The document, released by the Department of Personnel Management at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment and dated August 24, 2024, approves the voluntary discharge of about 27 soldiers.
The statement reads: “In accordance with the provisions of References A and B, the COAS vide NASHO Reference C approved the voluntary discharge of the above named soldier and 26 others listed at Annex A.
“The soldiers are to proceed on terminal leave NAMCHO AMCHU with effect from 1 Nov 24 while their disengagement date takes effect from 30.
“I am directed to respectfully request you to cause the affected soldiers’ units to ensure that the discharging soldiers complete the following NAMCTH.
“Additionally, the affected units are to ensure that forms of military controlled items, arms, ammunition and items of combat kits are recovered from the discharging soldiers prior to their disengagement date.
“The disengaging soldiers forward 2 copies of current passport and 5 x 7 NAMC PAMEHO NAM photographs each on No 6 Dress (Woodland Camouflage) standing at ease NAMC
“The discharging soldiers are to report to this Department on completion of their terminal leave for collection of Discharge Certificate and Record of service before proceeding to MBP for final documentation.”
