The Nigerian Army is taking steps to re-enlist ex-servicemen, with a focus on addressing critical staffing gaps, particularly within its Mechanical Engineering Corps. The Army’s initiative comes after a series of voluntary resignations over recent years, underscoring the challenges it faces in retaining soldiers.
Since 2020, a steady wave of soldiers has exited the Army. Last year alone, the Army approved the retirement of 59 soldiers. These departures follow earlier trends: 261 soldiers resigned in 2022, 127 in 2021, and 365 in 2020. The exodus continued in 2024, with 196 additional soldiers leaving as of August. According to military sources who spoke with PUNCH, these losses have particularly affected the technical units, essential for equipment maintenance and support in active operations.
A memo dated October 16, 2024, revealed the Army’s appeal to its former personnel. Signed by Lt. Col. A. Muhammed, the document directed commanding officers to reach out to ex-soldiers and gauge their interest in re-enlistment.
The memo partly read: “The deployment of technical manpower is essential for effective and efficient equipment support in the field which is based on trades/expertise of technicians. NAEME is currently experiencing an acute shortage of manpower.
“The dearth of manpower in the Corps is further compounded by the large number of voluntarily discharged soldiers in recent years. Consequently, I am directed to request Comds/COs to reach out to discharged skilled soldiers in their AOR who are willing to be re-engaged to the NA on a contract basis.
“I am to add that names of discharged personnel willing to be re-engaged should be forwarded to this Headquarters NLT 19 Oct 24 using the attached proforma. Grateful to treat and acknowledge.”
Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi (retired) supported the plan, noting the value of seasoned soldiers. He also suggested that soldiers might leave due to recruitment challenges and advocated for enlisting candidates genuinely dedicated to military service, rather than those seeking a fallback job.
He said, “It is not unusual for retired Army officers to come back and participate in the security architecture of a nation. This practice is common in other advanced countries.
“If there is a plan to implement this here, I believe it is a good idea.”
“As of today, the military is well-organised and well-structured. The welfare system is adequate, and the training we received was never a source of complaint. If, as you said, they are leaving in their numbers, it suggests that something might be wrong with recruitment.
“The focus should be on recruiting people who are genuinely interested in serving, rather than those simply looking for employment because they have no other options.
“Those truly dedicated to the military will remain regardless of the challenges or conditions. They won’t abandon their duty. Unfortunately, some people in this country are merely searching for jobs.”
Another perspective came from Brigadier General Peter Aro (retired), who explained that many resignations stem from soldiers’ concerns over their post-service futures.
He said, “But joining the military isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about serving the nation. In our time, we never prioritised welfare. Even when we were young officers, our civilian counterparts were often better off, but we didn’t care. The uniform came with an unquantifiable level of respect, and that respect was more valuable than money.
“Being in the military is a career of integrity, one that commands respect in society. That’s what we valued in those days — not the material benefits, but the honour that came with the service. Honestly, the military remains one of the best organisations to start a career.
“You’re provided accommodation immediately, your salary is never delayed, and the challenges are there for those who seek them. There are many benefits, including opportunities for further education, both civil and military. You can pursue a master’s degree or a BSc while serving. The military provides these opportunities.
“So, I’m surprised that people are leaving the military. Where are they going? What will they do? I can’t understand it.”
