Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff, says the two months’ allowances owed
soldiers involved in Operation Lafiya Dole, would be paid this week.
In a
statement issued on his behalf by Sani Usman, army spokesman, Buratai said the
release of funds by the ministry of defence would facilitate the payment.
He
made the promise less than 24 hours after TheCable published the letter which an anonymous soldier wrote to
President Muhammadu Buhari.
The
soldier had among other things complained of poor welfare and alleged
corruption in the army.
He
said he and his colleagues borrow money from civilians to be able to feed.
In
the statement, Usman said Buratai sent letters to soldiers on the battlefront
to encourage and motivate them.
“The
chief of army staff (COAS), Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu
Buratai has today despatched a special message of assurance, encouragement and
commendation to troops of the Nigerian Army engaged in various operations both
within and outside the country,” the statement read.
“This
is contained in a letter sent to various formations and corps commanders,
as well as commanders of the various training institutions of the Nigerian Army
on Sunday 5th November 2017.
“In
the letter, Lieutenant General Buratai showered encomiums on the troops for the
unflinching loyalty, perseverance, courage and dedication to duty which brought
about the desired success in the fight against terrorism, insurgency and other
criminal activities.
“He
also paid glowing tribute to those troops stationed outside the shores of our
great nation.
“The
COAS has also assured troops especially those on Operation LAFIYA DOLE of their
welfare. This is coming from the good news of the release of funds for the
payment of operational allowances and logistics for the Third Quarter 2017 from
the Ministry of Defence.
“He
further stated that this would facilitate the payment of operational allowances
owed to them for the last 2 months this week accordingly.
“The
COAS while thanking them for their patriotism, patience and understanding,
further reiterated that he will ensure that as usual, all funds meant for the
troops and the Operation LAFIYA DOLE will always be paid promptly when received
from the appropriate Ministries.
“He
further stated that the Nigerian Army High Command under his leadership will
continue to remain responsible, responsive and accountable to troops’
operational requirements.”
Source: The Cable
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