Army Chief Orders Probe into Viral Video on Soldiers’ Food Concerns

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has directed an immediate investigation into a viral video purportedly showing troops expressing dissatisfaction with food supplies. This directive was revealed in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele.

The video, which has been widely circulated on social media and reported by mainstream outlets, features soldiers displaying food items allegedly provided by military authorities. While the authenticity and context of the footage remain uncertain, the COAS assured that the matter would be addressed with the utmost seriousness, and findings from the investigation would be made public to ensure transparency and accountability.

Lt.-Gen. Oluyede reaffirmed the army’s unwavering commitment to troops’ welfare through its “Soldier First” initiative, which prioritises the well-being, dignity, and operational readiness of personnel and their families. He urged soldiers to channel any grievances through official military procedures rather than unauthorised platforms, which violate military ethics and discipline.

He further emphasized that the Nigerian Army remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of leadership, integrity, and troop welfare in line with its constitutional responsibilities.

“Troops’ welfare remains a top priority, as we continue to build a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of fulfilling its constitutional duties within a joint and multi-agency framework. The recently launched ‘Soldier First’ concept reinforces this, placing the welfare of soldiers and their families at the heart of all army policies and actions,” he stated.

The COAS reiterated that personnel are encouraged to utilize established channels to raise welfare-related concerns, stressing that airing grievances on unauthorised platforms is considered a breach of military discipline. He assured both the troops and the public that the Nigerian Army will continue to uphold accountability, welfare, and institutional integrity as it works toward achieving operational excellence.