In response to a viral video circulating online, the Nigerian Army has clarified that the individual seen complaining about poor meal provisions for soldiers in Yobe State is not a member of the military.
The video in question shows a man displaying a meager portion of semo, expressing dissatisfaction with the quality of meals being provided to soldiers in Kanama, Yobe State.
Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, issued a statement on Thursday indicating that an immediate investigation was launched by authorities.
Following the investigation, it was determined that the person featured in the video was not affiliated with the Nigerian Army.
Nwachukwu affirmed that no personnel in the area had been served substandard meals.
He explained, “The Nigerian Army has taken notice of a video circulating on social media alleging poor feeding of soldiers from the 159 Battalion in Kanama, Geidam Local Government.
“In response to this video, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, ordered an investigation led by the Commander of Sector 2 Operation HADIN KAI to verify the claims and address any issues of inadequate feeding within the unit.
“The findings of the investigation indicate that the video was not created by soldiers of the 159 Battalion but rather by a police officer serving with the troops in Geidam. Contrary to the video’s claims, no personnel at that location received substandard meals as portrayed in the video.”
Nwachukwu mentioned that the police officer had recorded and shared the video online with undisclosed motivations.
He emphasized that the welfare of frontline personnel was a top priority for the Nigerian Army.
Nwachukwu added, “Preliminary investigations suggest that the police officer who captured and shared the footage had undisclosed motives, which are yet to be determined. Further investigations are expected to shed light on this.
“It is essential to clarify that the Nigerian Army leadership places great importance on the welfare of troops and their families, ensuring they are adequately supported and motivated.
“The Chief of Army Staff continues to demonstrate unwavering dedication to the well-being of soldiers, particularly those on the frontlines, who are making significant sacrifices to defend the nation and safeguard its citizens.
“This commitment is evident in various welfare initiatives implemented by the Chief of Army Staff, including increased Ration Cash Allowances, prompt medical evacuations for soldiers injured in action, backlog clearance of the Group Life Insurance Scheme arrears from 2012, subsidized housing options for soldiers, and activation of the Personnel Insurance Scheme for soldiers injured in combat, among others.
“Furthermore, efforts are underway to enhance Nigerian Army medical facilities, renovate existing accommodations, and construct new housing units for soldiers and their families in various cantonments and barracks.”