Nigerian military has reacted to a viral video making the rounds on social media alleging non-payment of allowances to troops and victimization of a soldier
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, dismissed the video as misleading while providing clarification on allowance issues and reaffirming zero tolerance for misconduct.
The Headquarters, Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, OPHK, stated that the claims contained in the video are false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and discredit the military command structure.
The statement said, “It is important to emphasize that all legitimate allowances due to troops under Operation HADIN KAI have been paid up to date as of May 2026, with no outstanding issues. These include the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA), disbursed to units for centralized feeding of troops, Operational Allowance paid directly into individual accounts, and Habit Allowance also paid into individual accounts.
“The claim in the video concerns an additional incentive paid to troops providing security at a critical national asset in Tuba, disbursed only when funds are available. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, initially assumed responsibility for this allowance, while the Borno State Government maintained a separate payment plan for the Police and Volunteer Forces.
“However, when NNPC ceased exploration, payments to troops were discontinued. Consequently, the Borno State Government graciously took over responsibility and effort is ongoing to incorporate the payment of troops into the same plan for the Police and Volunteer Forces.
“At the time the concern was raised, funds for this additional allowance were still pending. During an operational visit, the soldier presented the matter to Brigadier General Solomon Diwa, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, who assured personnel that he would liaise with the relevant authorities to ensure payment once funds were released.
“The allegation that the soldier was intimidated or punished is entirely unfounded. The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare and fair treatment of its personnel. Preliminary findings further reveal that the video was not produced by the soldier, but by a mischievous content creator known for publishing material based on information from a few disgruntled individuals. The Theatre Command regards this act as unpatriotic and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of the Armed Forces.
“The dissemination of such maligning information constitutes a violation of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ social media policy, which clearly defines the acceptable use of digital platforms by personnel, particularly in relation to operational matters.
“Measures are firmly in place to address any breaches in accordance with established regulations. In addition, the Military High Command has instituted robust mechanisms to ensure prompt and consistent payment of all legitimate entitlements, including close collaboration with relevant stakeholders to improve funding timelines for supplementary allowances. The welfare of troops remains a paramount priority, and all concerns are continually addressed through established and effective channels.”
The Theatre Command urged media organizations and the public to refrain from disseminating unverified or misleading information, particularly on sensitive military operations.
It said that such actions risk undermining troop morale and jeopardizing national security efforts.
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