127 Soldiers Resign from the Nigerian Army

127 soldiers have tendered their resignation from the  Nigerian Army amidst the worsening insecurity in parts of Nigeria’s northeast.

The soldiers, drawn from various formations of the army across the country, are all of the junior cadres who are mostly at the forefront in the field in the fight against Islamic insurgents.

Military sources have told Sahara Reporters that the mass resignation is due to the “low morale” among the officers, who are at the battle field in the fight against Boko Haram.

According to a memo signed by Brigadier T.A Gagariga, the 127 soldiers are to submit all military properties in their possession as they are disengaged.

“In compliance with the provisions of section A, the COAS vide reference B has approved the voluntary discharge of the above named NWO and 126 others listed in annex A. The soldiers are to proceed on terminal leave WEF 26th April, 21 while their disengagement date takes effect from 26th May 21 in accordance with the NA administrative policies and procedures No. 27 paragraphs 3 and 4,” the memo read.

“Accordingly, I am directed to request you relate to their respective units to release the affected soldiers to report to HQ CAR with their unit service documents for documentation NLT 5th January 21 and ensure that:”

“ a. All forms of military controlled items, arms, ammunition and items of combat kits are recovered from the soldiers prior to their disengagement date and certified that they are properly de-kitted.”

b. They complete all necessary documentation for withdrawal from: 1. NAWIS contributions 2. DENFUND contribution 3. National Mortgage Contributions,” the memo read.

In another memo circulated within the Nigerian military cadres and seen by REPORT AFRIQUE, the resigning personnel comprises one Master Warrant Officer, three Warrant Officers, 22 Staff Sergeants, 29 Sergeants, 64 Corporals, seven Lance Corporals and one Private, will be finally disengaged in May, 2021 as approved by the Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai.

The list of the exiting soldiers did not distinguish between those embarking on voluntary retirement and those leaving the army on medical grounds.