The Nigerian Army has urged widows and next-of-kin of fallen soldiers with unresolved welfare claims to come forward with verifiable details to enable it investigate and address their concerns.
This appeal follows several challenges and publications which alleged that the Army has neglected families of deceased personnel, and highlighted cases of bribery, extortion, and sexual harassment in the processing of death benefits.
Reacting to the report, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, issued a statement on Sunday describing the allegations as “disturbing” and not reflective of the Nigerian Army’s welfare policies and procedures.
“The Nigerian Army requests the individual(s) making these allegations to kindly come forward with facts specifying details of the benefit(s) that have not been received, with the identity of the deceased personnel involved, so that the appropriate records can be checked and any legitimate concern(s) addressed accordingly,” the statement read.
The Army maintained that it has a robust welfare structure in place to support families of deceased personnel. According to the statement, available benefits include:
- Gratuity paid by the Military Pension Board
- Burial expenses covered by the Nigerian Army
- Chief of Army Staff’s financial support
- Group Personnel Accident Insurance
- Nigerian Army Welfare Insurance Scheme
- Benevolent Funds and Group Life Insurance
- Facilitation of access to the Federal Housing Scheme contributions
On the more sensitive allegations of sexual harassment and bribery, the Army said it has not received any formal complaints via its Human Rights Desks or investigative channels.
“The Nigerian Army takes all allegations of sexual harassment or extortion very seriously. However, no formal complaints have been received… Anyone with credible evidence is strongly encouraged to report such misconduct through established complaint mechanisms to enable prompt disciplinary action.”
While expressing sympathy for the emotional and financial burdens carried by the families of fallen heroes, the Army emphasized the need for proper documentation and formal engagement to resolve outstanding claims.
“Without concrete details or formal complaints, it is challenging to verify or resolve any case effectively,” the Army said.
The military high command reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for misconduct, and assured the public that any substantiated case would be thoroughly investigated and addressed.
