Nigerian Soldiers Allege Shortfall in Frontline Allowances: N20,000 Paid Out of N100,000 Approved for Boko Haram Duty

Abuja – Fresh allegations have emerged from Nigerian soldiers deployed in the North-East, who claim they are being paid only N20,000 monthly out of the N100,000 special allowance approved for troops engaged in the fight against Boko Haram.

The allowance, known as the Scarce Skills Allowance, was designed to compensate personnel risking their lives on the frontline. However, several soldiers stated that despite government approved for full payment, they continue to receive only a fraction of the amount.

“The Federal Government approved N100,000 per soldier, but we are collecting just N20,000 each,” one soldier alleged, describing the situation as a long-standing injustice that undermines morale in the field.

This is not the first time such complaints have surfaced. Previous reports in 2017 and 2021 raised similar concerns, with soldiers accusing senior officers of diverting funds while frontline troops struggled to meet basic needs.

The recurring allegations of underpayment and neglect have fueled frustration among personnel who say they face daily dangers without adequate welfare support.

Appeal for Intervention

The aggrieved soldiers are calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene directly, urging anti-graft agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC to investigate the alleged diversion of funds.

Analysts warn that sustained welfare issues risk weakening the morale of the forces at a time when their commitment is crucial to ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.

Glide Mediawill continue to monitor developments as pressure mounts on military authorities to provide clarity and ensure accountability over the disputed allowance payments.