By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma of the Nigerian Army has dismissed media publication of an online outfit alleging that troops are being provided with poisonous food and unhealthy drinking water in the field in Zamfara and Katsina states.

The Nigerian Army described the claim by the online outfit as not only false but also grossly misleading.

In a statement issued on Friday by Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, coordinator joint Media coordination centre, Operation Fansan Yamma wishes to clarify that all meals for troops are prepared by trained cooks from the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, who strictly adhere to the highest standards of hygiene and nutrition.

The statement stated that the Nigerian Army Engineers ensure a steady supply of clean drinking water through constructed boreholes, fully compliant with all hygienic regulations.

It reads: "If these allegations were true, our troops would not remain healthy, alert, and capable of consistently achieving operational successes in the Theatre.

Regarding unpaid allowances, ?we want to emphasize that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been diligently addressing this matter. ?Despite budgetary constraints, operational allowances have been paid up to February 2025, with only March 2025 pending ? scheduled for disbursement by the end of the month.

?This underscores the DHQ?s commitment to ensuring that troops receive their rightful entitlements on time. In terms of troop rotations, we stress that personnel are redeployed appropriately by their respective units.

?Any perceived delays primarily affect personnel from Northwest Theatre-based units. Structured measures are already in place to facilitate their posting in batches.

?It is essential to recognize that these delays are due to broader manpower shortages across all theatres, making large-scale immediate rotations challenging. The DHQ is actively working to resolve these systemic issues to enhance operational efficiency.

?We urge media outlets to prioritize accuracy and responsibility in their reporting. Misinformation not only undermines troop morale but also erodes public trust in the Armed Forces? efforts.

?We call on the media to engage in balanced, fact-based journalism that reflects the complexities of the operations, rather than disseminating unfounded claims that detract from the sacrifices of our gallant troops in Operation Fansan Yamma.?