The Nigerian Army has refuted misleading social media reports alleging that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has introduced an automatic promotion policy for personnel who have served in their current ranks for five years or more.
In an official statement, Director, Army Public Relations Major General Onyema Nwachukwu described the claims as baseless and deliberately misleading. It emphasized that promotions within the Nigerian Army are strictly merit-based, governed by statutory regulations outlined in the Nigerian Army Administrative Policies and Procedures (Revised 2023) and the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for Soldiers, Ratings, and Airmen (2024).
Key promotion criteria include completing the required service period in a substantive rank, undergoing professional training, maintaining a satisfactory disciplinary and performance record, and meeting medical and physical fitness standards. The Army reaffirmed that it adheres to a structured and transparent promotion system aligned with the broader Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The public has been urged to disregard the false claims, as the Nigerian Army remains committed to professionalism, fairness, and operational effectiveness. Lieutenant General Oluyede remains dedicated to the welfare and career development of personnel under his “Soldier First” initiative but will not compromise due process or established protocols.
