More than 196 soldiers stationed in the North-East and other active areas have reportedly asked for voluntary retirement from the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja. According to SaharaReporters, many of these soldiers plan to join military forces in other countries, including the British and Ukrainian armies, as well as other Commonwealth nations. The soldiers, all junior ranks and from various army formations nationwide, have had their requests formally approved by the Chief of Army Staff.
The list of those leaving does not differentiate between voluntary retirements and those departing on medical grounds, but none have reached retirement age or completed the required years of service. The approval for their disengagement, dated August 23, was signed by Brigadier OH Musa. Recent reports indicate that many soldiers are resigning due to poor welfare, insufficient equipment, and lack of motivation within the Nigerian Army. Sources have voiced their dissatisfaction with the government's failure to provide adequate living conditions, modern weaponry, and fair compensation while facing ongoing threats from non-state actors in the country.