Many Nigerian soldiers reportedly resign, join Ukraine, British armies

Many Nigerian soldiers reportedly resign, join Ukraine, British armies

Over 20 soldiers in the Nigerian Army have reportedly resigned to enlist in military forces abroad, including the British and Ukrainian armies, as well as those of other Commonwealth nations, according to insider reports obtained by SaharaReporters.

The widespread resignations are said to stem from dissatisfaction over poor welfare, inadequate resources, and a lack of motivation within the Nigerian Army, the online newspaper reported Thursday.

Sources revealed that the departing soldiers are primarily from the medical corps, with additional personnel expected to leave soon, as many resignations are still pending approval.

Expressing their frustrations, the sources cited the government’s failure to provide them with adequate living conditions, modern military equipment, and sufficient compensation to effectively address the growing threats posed by non-state actors across the country.

“A group of 27 personnel from the medical corps are leaving, and more are expected from the infantry and armoured corps,” a military source shared with SaharaReporters. “The situation is no longer sustainable, and soldiers are actively seeking opportunities in foreign armies like the British, Ukrainian, and Russian forces, as well as other Commonwealth military units.”

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A document obtained by SaharaReporters reportedly confirmed the mass resignations. Issued by the Department of Personnel Management at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment on August 24, 2024, the document officially approved the voluntary discharge of 27 soldiers.

The document stated: “In line with References A and B, the Chief of Army Staff, via NASHO Reference C, has approved the voluntary discharge of the listed soldiers, effective from November 1, 2024, with final disengagement set for November 30.”

It also instructed relevant military units to recover all military-issued items, including arms, ammunition, and combat gear, from the departing personnel before their exit.

Efforts to reach the Nigerian Army spokesperson, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, for comments by SaharaReporters were unsuccessful.

This situation follows repeated reports of delayed payments and unpaid allowances to Nigerian soldiers.

Earlier in the week, it was reported that the Nigerian government had yet to pay the August salaries of army personnel.

Many Nigerian soldiers reportedly resign, join Ukraine, British armies