A Nigerian soldier stationed in Maiduguri, Borno State expressed frustration in a viral video about being unable to visit his family due to insufficient funds from his salary. The soldier said he had spent one year fighting Boko Haram in the bush and was given a pass to see his family. However, upon reaching the motor park, he was told the transport fare to his hometown was 35,000 naira one way. With his 50,000 naira monthly salary, the 70,000 naira round trip was unaffordable.
Speaking pidgin English in the video, the soldier lamented having to return to the bush unable to see his family despite risking his life fighting terrorism for a year. The video gained widespread attention on social media for highlighting the low pay and difficult conditions of Nigerian soldiers.
According to reports, the soldier has allegedly been detained by the army in the guardroom for several days over the embarrassment caused by the viral video. Multiple unnamed military sources confirmed the soldier's detention to Sahara Reporters.
The detention has sparked criticism as it underscores the army's suppression of soldiers who speak up about inadequate welfare while risking their lives on the frontlines.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, recently revealed that soldiers earn less than 50,000 naira per month. Generals and soldiers on operations get a daily feeding allowance of 1,200 naira. General Musa stated that despite the low pay, soldiers were doing well and should be better compensated.
The video highlights the disconnect between soldiers sacrificing their lives under harsh conditions versus the army leadership. While detention may discourage other soldiers from publicly complaining, it does not address core issues of low salaries and denial of operational allowance. Improving soldiers' welfare and transparency around allowances could boost morale and effectiveness against insurgents. Rather than suppressing dissent, the army should focus on tackling corruption and implementing reforms to support troops risking their lives for the nation.
0 Comments