There are emerging signs that the Nigerian Army may be facing a critical manpower shortage, driven by a high rate of voluntary retirements. Sources indicate that the Mechanical Engineering Corps has been particularly affected.
Reports show that over 1,008 soldiers left the Army in the past four years alone. In 2023, the Army approved the retirement of 59 soldiers, while 261 exited in 2022, 127 in 2021, and 365 in 2020.
This August, an additional 196 soldiers resigned.In response, the Army has begun exploring options to rehire former soldiers. An internal memo dated October 16, 2024, revealed that the Mechanical Corps is actively reaching out to discharged personnel, hoping to re-engage those with essential technical skills on a contract basis. Lt. Col. A. Muhammed, who signed the memo, highlighted the urgent need for skilled technicians to ensure effective equipment maintenance.
The memo instructed commanding officers to compile a list of willing former soldiers, to be submitted to headquarters by October 19.Reacting to the situation, Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu stated that the Army’s service is primarily voluntary, but he did not offer further comment on the reported manpower gap.Retired Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinbi expressed support for the re-engagement plan, calling it a valuable practice seen in many developed countries.
He emphasized that individuals joining the Army should be driven by a commitment to serve, rather than simply seeking employment. According to him, those with a true dedication to the military are less likely to leave despite challenges.
Adewinbi noted that joining the military is about serving the nation, not just securing a job. Reflecting on his own experience, he emphasized the honor and respect that came with the uniform, a value that went beyond material benefits.
However, Brig. Gen. Peter Aro (retd) took a different view, stating that many soldiers are leaving to secure their futures, driven by fears of an uncertain post-service life.
He emphasized that these soldiers dedicate their youth and strength to protect the nation but are often left adrift after retirement. He noted that many veterans struggle without adequate life insurance or post-service support. According to Aro, soldiers often face harsh conditions, limited opportunities to prepare for civilian life, and inadequate welfare.
The unchecked authority to “hire and fire” also adds to the insecurity, leading many to leave early.Aro recalled past instances of abrupt retirements in the public service, such as under General Obasanjo, which has cultivated a culture of prioritizing personal security over prolonged service.
He lamented that skilled professionals within the Army, such as doctors and engineers, are frequently forced into early retirement without sufficient support or recognition.Reflecting on the treatment of veterans, Aro highlighted a lack of support structures, such as housing projects for retired soldiers, which exist in other countries.
He pointed to the indignity faced by veterans who, after years of service, are often relegated to remote areas while luxury estates are built for wealthier civilians.
He argued that Nigeria’s political leaders have largely neglected the welfare of military personnel.Aro urged a comprehensive overhaul of military welfare and terms of service, cautioning that if these issues are ignored, Nigeria risks a future where there are too few soldiers left to defend the country. According to him, the strength of a nation lies not only in its wealth but in how it treats those who serve in its military.
