Nigerian soldiers are expressing deep concern and disappointment over the delayed payment of their Scare Scheme Allowance, a vital part of their compensation package.
The allowance acknowledges the unique hardships soldiers face in the line of duty and helps alleviate some of their financial burdens.
The issue began when Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede took office as Chief of Army Staff. Since then, the allowance has been consistently delayed, with some soldiers receiving it on the 10th, 12th, or 15th of the following month. This delay has severe consequences on their morale, welfare, and overall effectiveness.
Soldiers feel that the delay is a breach of trust and confidence in their leadership, considering their loyalty and dedication to serving the nation. They believe their sacrifices deserve recognition and appreciation, not the current treatment.
The delayed payment has led to financial hardship for many soldiers, who struggle to manage with the rising cost of living. One stated, “Look at the economic situation today; everything is costly in the market. The small allowance we use to manage the salary, they will not pay on time.”
The soldiers are calling on President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, to intervene and ensure timely payment of their allowance. They argue that they are not just soldiers but also citizens of Nigeria, deserving of dignity and respect.
The Nigerian Army’s salary structure varies by rank, with recruits earning between ₦10,000 to ₦12,000 per month, while higher-ranking officers earn significantly more, up to ₦2 million per month for a General.
