A former commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Henry Ayoola (rtd), has dismissed claims that Nigerian soldiers purchasing personal military kits is evidence of systemic failure within the armed forces.
His comments come after a viral interview by a former soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, popularly known as Soja Boi, who alleged that officers buy uniforms, boots, and bulletproof vests despite low pay.
In an interview with Channels TV today April 10, Ayoola explained that it is not unusual for personnel to supplement standard-issue equipment with personal purchases.
“The idea of a soldier, out of personal choice, spending money to improve their kit beyond the standard issue should not be a big deal. It does not mean the system is not working. There is a standard kit that the Armed Forces provide, and that has not changed” Ayoola argued
According to the former commander, every soldier is entitled to a baseline level of equipment under what is known as a “full-service matching order”.
“There is a minimum standard of kit that every soldier must be given. It is not true to say that authorities are not kitting soldiers,” he added
Ayoola acknowledged that operational realities sometimes affect the availability of equipment but emphasised that commanders make efforts to optimise resources.
“When equipment is limited, it is rationalised. There is innovation, and sometimes troops make do with what is available” he explained