A former Nigerian soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan—widely known as Soja Boi—has alleged that many personnel in the Nigerian Army are forced to purchase their own uniforms and protective equipment despite earning relatively low salaries.
Olamilekan, a dismissed lance corporal who served with the 81 Division Task Force Battalion in Borno State, made these claims during an upcoming episode of the Honest Brunch Podcast alongside activist Omoyele Sowore. Known for his humorous military-themed videos, he offered a candid look into life within the ranks.
He revealed that before his dismissal in March, his monthly salary ranged between ₦109,000 and ₦111,000, following a recent pay increase. Prior to that adjustment, he earned about ₦51,000, with allowances bringing it to roughly ₦70,000—an amount he described as extremely difficult to live on.
According to him, soldiers often receive little to no additional support beyond their wages. He further claimed that uniforms, which can cost around ₦55,000, and boots, sometimes priced as high as ₦60,000, must be purchased personally—expenses that can exceed a soldier’s monthly income.
Olamilekan also alleged that essential protective gear such as bulletproof vests and helmets is rarely provided, except during high-profile visits or special occasions. As a result, he said many soldiers operate in dangerous areas like Sambisa Forest without adequate protection.
Reflecting on his deployment, he noted spending nearly five years in Maiduguri—far longer than the typical two-year rotation—highlighting what he described as systemic challenges within the military structure.
Earlier in 2026, Olamilekan gained national attention after posting a viral video urging political leaders to send their children into military service to better understand the realities faced by soldiers. He was later arrested and detained for several weeks, sparking the #FreeSojaBoi campaign online.
Following his release in March, he thanked supporters and claimed his dismissal from the army was directly linked to the controversial video.
The Nigerian Army has yet to officially confirm or deny the allegations, with spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anaele stating that a formal response would be issued.
