Army Denies Allegations of Delayed Promotions, Stagnant Pay

The Nigerian Army has dismissed recent media reports alleging delayed promotions and stagnant salaries under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army described the allegations as false, malicious, and aimed at undermining the credibility of the institution. The report, which had been circulating on social media and certain online platforms, claimed that personnel had faced prolonged promotion delays and had not received salary increases since Oluyede took office. Lt. Col. Anele clarified that the promotion process in the Nigerian Army is governed by the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024 edition. She explained that promotions are based on merit, performance, seniority, disciplinary record, successful completion of courses, and the availability of vacancies, all subject to the recommendations of a duly constituted Promotion Board. She stated that the Chief of Army Staff does not have the power to unilaterally delay promotions, as the process is regulated and institutional. On the issue of pay, the Army said it does not determine or manage salary structures, which are handled by appropriate federal agencies in line with national remuneration policies. Anele noted that there had been no disruptions in salary payments and that all personnel had continued to receive their entitlements as approved. She highlighted several welfare initiatives under Lt. Gen. Oluyede’s administration, including the doubling of Ration Cash Allowance and the expansion of the Army Welfare Loan Scheme to support personnel in business ventures, home ownership, and other personal development goals. These measures, she said, reflect the Army’s commitment to improving the welfare and morale of its troops. The Army warned media organizations against publishing unverified and misleading reports, noting that such content could harm national security and affect the morale of troops serving in critical operations. It urged the public to disregard the claims and reiterated its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and the well-being of all personnel.