The Nigerian Army has dismissed as false and malicious a recent publication by Sahara Reporters alleging delayed promotions and stagnation of pay under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Acting Director, Army Public Relations Lieut. Col. Appolonia AneleJuly 26, 2025, the Army described the report as “misleading and baseless,” asserting that promotions within its ranks are governed strictly by the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024, which outlines clear and merit-based criteria.
“Promotions in the Nigerian Army are not arbitrary,” the statement read. “They are based on performance, medical fitness, completion of requisite training, and recommendation by duly constituted Promotion Boards, as specified in paragraphs 04.01 to 04.04 of HTACOS.”
The Army also clarified that claims of pay stagnation are unfounded, noting that pay structure reviews are the responsibility of designated federal institutions, not the sole prerogative of Army leadership.
Highlighting recent welfare initiatives, the Army noted that Lt Gen Oluyede has doubled the Ration Cash Allowance, improved the Army Welfare Loan Scheme, and introduced reforms to support small and medium enterprise (SME) development among personnel — all in line with his “Soldier First” philosophy.
The statement further criticized Sahara Reporters for its “consistent anti-military bias,” accusing the platform of spreading unverified claims from anonymous or non-existent sources.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the welfare of its personnel, urging the public to disregard the report and remain assured of the military’s dedication to national service.
