The Nigerian Army has declared 44 soldiers missing and wanted for desertion after they failed to report back for duty in Borno State, a critical area in the fight against Boko Haram.
This alarming, made on November 4, 2024, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the military as it confronts insurgency in northeastern Nigeria. The soldiers, deployed to combat Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants, have been absent for over a month, raising serious concerns about troop morale and the effectiveness of military operations in a conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions.
The army’s internal communications reveal a desperate situation. Soldiers are reportedly abandoning their posts during critical operations, threatening not just ongoing missions but also the safety of their comrades and innocent civilians. Major HO Akoh, on behalf of the 403 Amphibious Brigade Commander, confirmed that their accounts had been frozen to prevent any transactions until they are apprehended. “We must ensure accountability,” he stated, emphasizing the need for strict disciplinary measures.
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The soldiers were part of a multinational effort under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), aimed at curtailing the activities of Boko Haram, which has terrorized northeastern Nigeria for years.
Since its inception in 2002, Boko Haram has caused significant destruction, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced. However, the Nigerian military’s struggle to contain this insurgency has led to growing dissatisfaction among troops. Reports indicate that many soldiers are disillusioned by their conditions, citing corruption and inadequate support as reasons for their lack of commitment.
In recent months, over 196 soldiers from various units have sought voluntary retirement, with some expressing intentions to join foreign military forces, including the British and Ukrainian armies.
The army has attempted to address these concerns, asserting that procedures for retirement and discharge are followed diligently. Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, reassuring the public in a statement, said, “Personnel can disengage at will, and we adhere to our established protocols.” Yet, many soldiers remain skeptical, fearing for their safety and questioning the leadership’s commitment to their welfare.
As the situation develops, the Nigerian Army faces pressing challenges in its fight against Boko Haram. The internal crisis of desertion compounds the difficulties of engaging a resilient enemy that continues to adapt its strategies. For the families of the missing soldiers and the communities affected by the conflict, the implications are profound, as the struggle for security in Nigeria’s northeastern region remains fraught with uncertainty.
