Nigerian Army Launches Probe Into Viral Video of Soldiers Complaining About Poor Meals

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed an immediate and thorough investigation into a circulating video clip allegedly showing Nigerian soldiers voicing concerns over inadequate food rations.

This development was made public through an official statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, on Thursday in Abuja.

The controversial footage, which quickly gained attention across social media platforms before making its way to mainstream news channels, displayed a group of troops exhibiting the food items they reportedly received from military logistics.

While the validity and broader context of the video remain uncertain, the Army Chief emphasized that the incident would be treated with the highest level of seriousness and professionalism.

General Oluyede assured Nigerians that the outcome of the investigation would be disclosed in due course to demonstrate transparency and reinforce public trust in the Nigerian Army’s internal accountability.

He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of army personnel, aligning with the “Soldier First” initiative, a framework that places a premium on the dignity, morale, and overall readiness of soldiers and their families.

In his remarks, the COAS strongly encouraged military personnel to use formal military channels to report grievances instead of turning to unauthorized platforms. He described such public outbursts as violations of military ethics and discipline, which could compromise operational integrity and public confidence.

He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding leadership principles, ethical values, and the welfare of its troops. These priorities are central to its constitutional role and internal operations.

“Troops’ welfare is a topmost concern,” General Oluyede stated. “Our ongoing transformation agenda is built on the vision of nurturing a highly motivated and mission-ready force capable of executing its constitutional mandate in collaboration with other security agencies.”

He further explained that the recently implemented “Soldier First” Concept is designed to ensure that the needs of troops and their family members are placed at the forefront of all army policies. This includes their physical and psychological well-being, honor, and combat preparedness.

The Army leadership, according to him, strongly discourages personnel from airing grievances on unapproved platforms—especially regarding operations and welfare matters—underscoring that doing so contradicts core military values.

In conclusion, the Nigerian Army reassured its personnel and the general public that it would continue to operate with utmost professionalism, transparency, and discipline, and that the welfare and morale of Nigerian soldiers remain pivotal to the success of its reforms and military engagements.