Dismissed Soldier Soja Boi Dares Nigerian Army to Publish Payroll Over Pay, Welfare Claims

Dismissed Soldier Soja Boi Dares Nigerian Army to Publish Payroll Over Pay, Welfare Claims

A dismissed Nigerian soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as Soja Boi, has challenged the Nigerian Army to release its payroll amid growing controversy over soldiers’ remuneration, allowances, and welfare. The former lance corporal made the call in a video posted on Tuesday, showing what he claims are bank transaction alerts reflecting his earnings while in service.

In the video, Olamilekan identified a payment of ₦112,061.59 as his monthly salary, alongside ₦20,000 described as a “grumbling allowance,” ₦45,000 operational allowance for deployment to active theatres like Maiduguri, and a ₦6,000 security allowance. He alleged that soldiers not on operations receive only their salary and the grumbling allowance, while operational allowances are conditional.

He also claimed that military personnel often pay out-of-pocket for helmets, boots, and protective jackets, stating: “Helmet, you go buy. Fragmentation jacket, you go buy them.” Olamilekan urged Nigerians to verify his claims with relatives serving in the Army, insisting his goal is not to discredit the institution but to present facts backed by evidence.

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However, the Nigerian Army has rejected Olamilekan’s claims as false and misleading. Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, clarified that uniforms, kits, arms, and protective gear are supplied through official channels, and no soldier is deployed without adequate operational equipment. The Army said Olamilekan was dismissed for repeated indiscipline and violations of military social media policies, not for raising concerns about pay or welfare.

On remuneration, the Army emphasised that personnel receive structured monthly salaries and allowances, including operational, mission-specific, and uniform allowances paid directly into their accounts. Soldiers deployed to conflict zones such as Operation HADIN KAI receive additional benefits such as ration cash and habit allowances, alongside free feeding and protective gear.

The Army warned that spreading unverified information could undermine morale and national security, urging the public to rely only on official sources for military news. Despite the rebuttal, Olamilekan’s challenge has sparked debate online, with calls for greater transparency in military pay and welfare systems.

Dismissed Soldier Soja Boi Dares Nigerian Army to Publish Payroll Over Pay, Welfare Claims