Aggrieved soldiers of the Nigerian Army have voiced frustration over low salaries, unpaid allowances, and disparities in pay among newly promoted personnel, warning that a mutiny could be imminent if the government fails to address their concerns.

In an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, shared with SaharaReporters, the soldiers accused top service chiefs of corruption and extortion, while urging a thorough review of salaries and allowances to match current economic realities.

The letter highlighted minimal salary increases for junior ranks despite recent promotions:

• Army Warrant Officers (AWO): ₦3,000 added
• Warrant Officer (WO): ₦4,000 added
• Staff Sergeant (SSgt): ₦15,000 added
• Sergeant (Sgt): ₦4,000 added
• Corporal (Cpl): ₦8,000 added
• Lance Corporal (LCpl): ₦2,000 added

The soldiers pointed out that while the Federal Government approved a 25–35% salary increase for armed forces personnel effective January 1, 2024, the Nigerian Army’s implementation has been minimal compared to the Navy and Air Force. They cited examples where counterparts in other branches received substantially higher increments:

• AWO: +₦75,000
• Chief Petty Officer/WO: +₦70,000
• PO/FS: +₦45,000
• LS/Sgt: +₦30,000
• AS/Cpl: +₦25,000
• OS/LCpl: +₦20,000

The soldiers described the current pay structure as unfair and unsustainable, particularly given the 5-year service period required for promotions. They stressed that allowances such as the scarce skills stipend of ₦100,000 have not been fully implemented since 2017, adding to financial strain caused by loans and debts.

“Poor pay with multiple loans and an unending cycle of debts—when will this stop?” the statement read. They warned that continued government inaction could lead to lawlessness and unrest within the ranks.

The open letter calls on President Tinubu to urgently intervene, ensure fair pay, and restore confidence among army personnel before tensions escalate further.