The Headquarters, Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media alleging non-payment of troops’ allowances and intimidation of a soldier, describing the claims as false, misleading and a calculated attempt to tarnish the image of the Nigerian military.
The Army insisted that all legitimate allowances due to personnel serving under the operation had been fully paid and that there were no outstanding arrears owed to troops currently deployed in the North-East theatre.
The clarification was contained in a statement released on Sunday and signed by the Media Information Officer of the Theatre Command, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.
According to the statement, the military authorities became aware of the trending video in which certain allegations were made concerning the welfare of soldiers participating in counter-insurgency operations in the region.
Reacting strongly to the claims, the command stated that the contents of the video deliberately distorted facts and were intended to misinform members of the public while undermining confidence in the military leadership.
“The Theatre Command categorically states that the claims contained in the video are false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and discredit the military command structure,” the statement declared.
The command stressed that welfare matters affecting troops remain a priority for the military high command and that consistent efforts have been made to ensure prompt payment of allowances and other entitlements.
It further explained that the Nigerian Army and other services involved in Operation HADIN KAI operate under structured financial and administrative systems that monitor personnel payments and welfare packages.
Military authorities noted that the operation, which remains one of Nigeria’s major counter-terrorism campaigns against insurgent groups in the North-East, relies heavily on troop morale, discipline and welfare support to sustain operational effectiveness.
The statement maintained that commanders at all levels are regularly directed to ensure the wellbeing of personnel deployed to frontline operations.
The Theatre Command also denied allegations suggesting that any soldier had been intimidated or victimised for raising concerns over welfare issues.
According to the Army, established channels already exist within the military system through which personnel can report grievances or administrative concerns without fear of harassment.
The command warned against the spread of unverified information capable of creating unnecessary tension among troops and the public.
It added that individuals behind the circulation of false narratives may be working to weaken public trust in ongoing military operations against insurgents and criminal elements in the North-East.
Security analysts say misinformation surrounding military welfare often generates public attention because of the difficult conditions under which troops operate in conflict zones.
For years, personnel deployed in the North-East have faced intense operational pressure while battling insurgency, banditry and other security threats across several communities.
Despite significant successes recorded by the military in reclaiming territories and degrading insurgent activities, concerns about troop welfare have occasionally surfaced in public discourse.
However, military authorities insist that welfare reforms and prompt payment systems have been strengthened in recent years to improve conditions for personnel.
A defence analyst who spoke on the matter noted that welfare remains critical to maintaining morale among troops involved in prolonged operations.
He explained that while operational environments can sometimes create perceptions of neglect, it is important to verify allegations before drawing conclusions.
“In any military operation, especially one as prolonged and complex as the North-East insurgency campaign, welfare issues are sensitive. But allegations should always be properly investigated to avoid spreading misinformation that could affect national security,” the analyst said.
The latest controversy comes amid renewed efforts by security agencies to intensify operations against terrorist groups and restore stability in parts of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.
Operation HADIN KAI has continued to coordinate land and air offensives against insurgent strongholds while also supporting humanitarian activities and civilian protection efforts in affected communities.
The military has repeatedly appealed to Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information and avoid circulating unverified reports capable of undermining national security operations.
In its statement, the Theatre Command urged members of the public, particularly social media users, to exercise caution and verify information before sharing content relating to military activities.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, discipline and troop welfare, while assuring Nigerians that operations against insurgents in the North-East would continue with renewed determination.
The command also praised troops serving in the theatre for their resilience, sacrifice and dedication in confronting security threats despite the difficult operational terrain.
Observers believe the military’s swift response to the viral video reflects growing concern within security circles over the influence of social media narratives on public perception and troop morale.
As counter-insurgency operations continue across the North-East, the military says maintaining public confidence and protecting the integrity of its command structure remain essential components of the broader fight against terrorism and insecurity in the country.
