Nigerian soldiers serving at the 241 Recce Model Battalion in Nguru, Yobe State, have raised fresh concerns over alleged non-payment of their operational allowances, even as they continue frontline operations against Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East.
The aggrieved personnel, speaking through a military source, claimed they are entitled to a monthly ₦45,000 operational allowance approved for troops engaged in counter-terrorism operations, but said the payment is either delayed or not received at all by those permanently stationed at the battalion.
According to the source, only soldiers temporarily attached to special assignments reportedly receive the allowance, while those permanently deployed in Nguru are allegedly excluded despite being actively involved in combat operations.
“They say the money is approved, but it doesn’t get to us,” the source said, adding that the situation has created frustration and lowered morale among troops risking their lives daily.
The claims come amid rising insecurity in Yobe State, where Boko Haram attacks have continued to target military formations and training facilities.
Just last week, terrorists reportedly launched a deadly midnight assault on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, resulting in the deaths of police officers and soldiers, with local sources claiming over 20 soldiers and 17 police officers were killed during the attack.
The soldiers in Nguru say the combination of increasing battlefield risks and alleged welfare neglect is worsening conditions for frontline personnel, especially those engaged in prolonged counter-insurgency operations.
Efforts to get a response from the Nigerian Army spokesperson were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.