A dismissed Nigerian soldier, Lance Corporal Rotimi Olamilekan, has alleged that personnel of the Nigerian Army are compelled to purchase essential kits, including uniforms, boots and bulletproof gear, from their personal earnings due to poor welfare provisions.
Olamilekan, popularly known as “Soja Boi,” made the claim while recounting his experience in a viral video posted in 2025, where he criticised the treatment of soldiers and called on political leaders to prioritise their welfare.
The former soldier, who was dismissed from service, described his time in the military as “harsh and traumatic,” noting that inadequate pay and poor living conditions contributed to his decision to leave.
“If I am to advise the government, I would only advise them to improve soldiers’ welfare. A soldier should be able to see a hungry civilian and give him or her some money, but it is not possible,” he said.
Olamilekan disclosed that his last monthly salary as a lance corporal was N109,000, with an additional N20,000 allowance, which he said was grossly insufficient to meet basic needs.
“Basically, a soldier’s salary does not amount to a hundred dollars,” he added.
He further stated that despite the provision of barracks accommodation, many soldiers still struggle with decent living conditions, with some forced to remain in overcrowded facilities due to their inability to afford personal housing.
Highlighting his personal challenges, Olamilekan said he had to cater for two children in private schools, a younger sibling, and his mother, making it difficult to survive on his earnings.
“There is a lot to do, and imagine if there is no more to cope with and provide basic needs, especially if I have to wait for the salary to come. I have to have more earnings,” he said.
The ex-soldier also lamented the lack of freedom within the system, stressing that despite the demanding nature of the job, the remuneration does not reflect the risks involved.
“There is no freedom; you still have to keep working, but the pay is low,” he added.
Olamilekan had earlier sparked reactions online after urging politicians to send their children to the battlefield to experience the realities faced by frontline troops.
His claims have renewed concerns over the welfare of military personnel amid ongoing security challenges across the country, with stakeholders repeatedly calling for improved funding, better equipment, and enhanced support systems for soldiers.
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