By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered an immediate investigation into a viral video, showing troops allegedly expressing dissatisfaction over food supplies.

This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, on Thursday in Abuja,

The video, which surfaced on social media and had since been picked up by mainstream outlets, featured soldiers displaying food items purportedly sent by military authorities.

While the full context and authenticity of the video remained unclear, the COAS said the matter would be treated with utmost concern.

According to him, findings from the investigation will be made public in the spirit of transparency and accountability.

The COAS reaffirmed commitment to troops’ welfare, emphasising the army’s “Soldier First” initiative, which, prioritised the well-being, dignity, and operational readiness of personnel and their families.

He urged personnel to channel complaints through established military procedures rather than resorting to unauthorised platforms, which is a violation of military ethics and discipline.

He restated the dedication of the Nigerian army to maintaining high standards of leadership, integrity, and troop’s welfare in line with its constitutional responsibilities.

“Troops’ welfare remains topmost priority, in line with consolidating the transformation of the Nigerian army toward bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

“This philosophy is further reinforced in the recently launched “Soldier First” Concept, which places the welfare of family members, well-being, dignity, and operational readiness of soldiers at the core of all Army policies and actions.

“The Nigerian army encourages personnel to utilise established and appropriate military channels to present their concerns or complaints especially on welfare services.

“The use of unauthorised platforms to express grievances, particularly on operational matters, is highly discouraged and considered a breach of military ethics and discipline.

“The Nigerian army reassures all its personnel and the general public that it will continue to uphold the highest standards of leadership accountability, troops’ welfare and institutional integrity in fulfilment of its constitutional mandate.

“The well-being and effectiveness of the Nigerian soldier remains central to our ongoing transformation efforts and operational success.” (NAN)