Amidst the ongoing security challenges faced by the Nigerian military in various parts of the country, a total of 25 soldiers are making their exit from the Nigerian Army, as reported by SaharaReporters.

The exclusive list, obtained by SaharaReporters, reveals that these soldiers are all members of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps (NAAC) and hold junior cadres. Junior cadres soldiers are typically deployed to the frontlines of conflict.

Established on April 21, 1958, NAAC emerged from the sole existing artillery battery in the NACA. It plays a crucial role as one of the key operational arms of the Nigerian Army, providing close combat support to the infantry. Its diverse units are equipped with various types of vehicles and armaments tailored to specific roles. These units encompass Recce Battalions, Tank Battalions, Light Tank Battalions, and the Demonstration Battalion.

Sources within the military have pointed to a surge in voluntary resignations, citing mistreatment by superiors and rampant corruption within the Nigerian Army. The departure of these 25 soldiers, all equipped with training in operating different war vehicles and armoured tanks, underscores the extent of the issue.

While the list does not differentiate between soldiers opting for voluntary retirement and those leaving due to medical reasons, it’s important to note that none of them have reached the standard retirement age or completed their mandatory years of service.

Colonel Y Datikum has endorsed their formal disengagement as Chief of Army Staff, with the approval date set at July 27, 2023. The 25 soldiers are required to return all military property in their possession.

An internal signal, signed by Datikum, instructs affected soldiers to report to the Headquarters, Garrison with their unit service documents for proper documentation. It further emphasizes the return of all military-controlled items and combat gear.

The Nigerian Army has been facing allegations of corruption, with some soldiers attributing the issue to extended stays in conflict areas like Northeast Nigeria. These allegations have prompted a substantial number of resignations, and some soldiers have accused higher-ranking officers of financial misconduct.

In a recent development, the Nigerian Army has raised the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) for soldiers from N1,000 to N1,200. This change is in response to the removal of fuel subsidies by the government, which led to an increase in living costs. The signal announcing this adjustment was signed by Major General E.E. Emekah on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff and dated July 28. The RCA covers the feeding expenses of military personnel as a substitute for central feeding.

Despite these ongoing changes, the Nigerian Army continues to grapple with internal challenges as it navigates security concerns and strives to maintain operational efficiency.

Source: Sahara Reporters