The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has mandated an immediate investigation into a viral video circulating on social media where soldiers were seen expressing dissatisfaction with the quality and quantity of meals provided to them.
The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, disclosed the probe in a statement issued on July 24, 2025, in Abuja. While the full context and authenticity of the video remain unclear, the COAS emphasized that this matter would be treated with utmost seriousness and findings shall be made public in the spirit of transparency and accountability.
Lt.-Gen. Oluyede reiterated the army's strong commitment to the welfare of its personnel, underscoring the recently launched “Soldier First” initiative, which places paramount importance on the well-being, dignity, and operational readiness of soldiers and their families.
The COAS urged military personnel to utilize established military channels for grievances rather than resorting to unauthorized platforms, as airing complaints publicly violates military ethics and discipline.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s dedication to maintaining high standards of leadership, integrity, and troop welfare in line with constitutional responsibilities, stressing that:
"Troops’ welfare remains topmost priority, aligned with consolidating the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards a well-motivated, combat-ready force capable of fulfilling its constitutional duties within joint and multi-agency environments."
This investigation follows similar concerns raised about troop welfare and aligns with ongoing efforts to improve morale and living conditions within the Nigerian military.
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