The Harsh Reality of Nigerian Soldiers’ Feeding Allowance
A recent investigation has revealed that Nigerian soldiers fighting Boko Haram in the North-East are being subjected to poor feeding conditions, with the government approving only N1000 per meal for each soldier. This amount is deemed inadequate to keep soldiers strong and motivated on the warfront.
The Tinubu administration increased the troops’ meal allowance from N45,000 to N90,000 per month per soldier. However, the funds are not paid directly to soldiers’ accounts. Instead, they are wired to Army commanders, who allegedly pocket a large portion of it before arranging substandard meals.
Soldiers have expressed frustration and disappointment with the current feeding arrangement. They claim that the food served is barely edible and lacks the necessary nutrients to sustain them. One soldier lamented, “No good food, no strength, no morale to fight these terrorists.” The soldiers also pointed out that the N1,000 per meal allowance is insufficient to purchase decent food in the current economic climate.
The investigation revealed that commanders in remote locations have discretion over the type of meals served, often resulting in low-quality rations. Despite an official food timetable from the Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, commanders seem to have a free hand in determining the meals served to soldiers.N1000 per meal is deemed insufficient to keep soldiers strong and motivated.
Funds are wired to Army commanders, who allegedly pocket a large portion before arranging meals.
Soldiers claim that the food served is barely edible and lacks necessary nutrients.
Commanders have discretion over meal arrangements, often resulting in substandard food.
The situation highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of soldiers’ feeding allowances to ensure that they receive the sustenance they need to perform their duties effectively.