Soldiers deployed in Nigeria’s North-East under Operation Lafia Dole have reportedly expressed frustration over irregular and unpaid operational allowances, describing the situation as both unfair and demoralising, SaharaReporters has learned.
A source on Monday revealed that officers stationed far from their home commands have not been receiving their monthly allowances on schedule.
“The payment is meant to be monthly, but it rarely comes on time. When it is eventually released, some officers may receive four months at once, while others get one, two, three months, or nothing at all,” the source explained.
Despite several complaints submitted through official channels, no meaningful action has been taken to address the problem, the source added.
“Complaints have been made repeatedly, but nothing changes. Some insiders told us that this has been the norm for a long time,” the source said.
The affected officers, drawn from various commands across Nigeria, have left their families behind to participate in the North-East operation, which targets ongoing security challenges in the region.
“These officers sacrificed time away from their families to serve in this operation, yet their allowances remain unpaid. This is extremely demoralising,” the source noted.
The North-East has remained a hotspot for military operations for over a decade due to the Boko Haram insurgency, its splinter factions, banditry, and other security threats. Personnel deployed to such operations are typically entitled to special allowances to compensate for the risks, harsh conditions, and prolonged separation from home.
This is not the first report of delayed or unpaid allowances. Previous media reports have documented similar complaints from soldiers, police officers, and other security personnel deployed in both the North-East and North-West. Some officers have alleged being owed several months of allowances, while others claimed payments are inconsistent or entirely absent.
In some cases, affected personnel have staged protests or submitted petitions to senior authorities, warning that delays and neglect in welfare provisions undermine morale and operational effectiveness. Security experts have repeatedly cautioned that poor welfare for frontline officers could weaken counter-insurgency efforts.
The soldiers are now calling on authorities to intervene urgently and ensure timely, transparent, and equitable payment of entitlements, emphasizing that consistent welfare support is crucial for maintaining morale and commitment in high-risk operations.
SaharaReporters reached out to the Army spokesperson, Lt. Col. Onyinye Anele, for comment, but she had not responded at the time of filing this report.
