Allegations of soldiers threatening mutiny over salaries and allowances published in Sahara Reporters has been debunked by the Nigerian Army authorities saying that such reports was “false, misleading and deliberately sensational, designed to undermine public confidence and national security.”
Making clarifications and putting records straight on the allegation, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations (DAPR), Colonel Appolonia Anele on Monday,19th January, 2026, in Abuja noted that “At no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Nigerian Army.”
She explained that “Mutiny is a grave offence under military law and alien to the ethos, discipline and professionalism of Nigerian Army personnel, who remain loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Colonel Anele further added that Sahara Reporters’ report relied solemnly on “anonymous, unverifiable claims circulated through non-official channels”. Adding that “Such narratives do not represent the views, conduct or disposition of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, who are trained to channel grievances through established military procedures rather than public platforms.
The DAPR while giving more insights into some modus operandi of the force stated that “promotion increments are only one component of military remuneration and should not be misrepresented as total earnings.
“Military pay comprises consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational allowances, field and hardship allowances and other entitlements that vary by deployment, qualification and responsibilities.
She reiterated that as a responsible force, the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant government authorities, continues to implement structured welfare reforms, including periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical care, and insurance packages for troops and their families.
Stressing that issues relating to allowances are continuously reviewed within approved government frameworks.
Interestingly, she elaborated, the Chief of Army Staff on assumption of duty has initiated positive engagements with the appropriate authority on troops welfare. This is already yielding progressive outcomes.
“Contrary to claims of neglect, the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces, particularly in the face of evolving security challenges.
The Nigerian Army remains a cohesive, disciplined and professional force, fully focused on its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and supporting internal security operations. Attempts to portray the institution as unstable or lawless are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to national security.
She urged members of the public to disregard such unfounded reports and rely on official communication channels for accurate information concerning the Armed Forces especially the Nigerian Army, the statement explained.
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