Some Say It Is Simply Not Enough as Nigerian Army Chief Increases Cash Allowance from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000.

Some Say It Is Simply Not Enough as Nigerian Army Chief Increases Cash Allowance from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000.

The news as it trends.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has declared an increase in the daily Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) for Nigerian Army personnel, raising it from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000, effective from March.

This announcement was made during his visit to the 81 Division, where he spoke to officers and soldiers at the 9th Brigade Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos, while also inspecting various project sites.

In addition to the increase in allowance, the COAS addressed the housing difficulties encountered by many Warrant Officers.

He emphasized ongoing efforts to mitigate these challenges, including the Nigerian Army Housing Scheme.

Oluyede highlighted the importance of the current housing initiative, which has already provided its first set of homes in Abuja, with further units being developed in Ibadan, Jos, Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Akwa Ibom.

He encouraged personnel to view this initiative as a valuable investment in their future, stating, “We are expediting the process to ensure that more personnel can benefit.

This initiative aims to offer affordable housing, enabling soldiers to secure a home for as little as ₦8 million.

I urge you all to have faith in the system—it is a sound investment in your future.”

Despite these advancements and initiatives, there are concerns regarding whether the increase in the daily Ration Cash Allowance from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000 adequately addresses the current inflation rates and rising costs of goods in Nigeria.

Some critics contend that, as an oil-producing nation, Nigeria should be doing more to support its troops.

It is important to note that the Nigerian Armed Forces comprise approximately 230,000 active personnel, including members of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Air Force, making it one of the largest uniformed combat services in Africa.

The Nigeria Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.