Nigerian soldiers stationed in the North-East to combat insurgency have expressed frustration over extended deployments, with some revealing they have not been rotated since 2018. This prolonged stay, far exceeding the typical deployment period, has taken a toll on their morale, mental health, and personal lives.
Speaking anonymously to Reporters for fear of reprisal, the soldiers criticized military authorities for failing to rotate them despite promises and official policies. They revealed that the extended deployment has not only weakened their resolve to fight but has also led to severe personal hardships, including family breakdowns.
According to one soldier, “About 15 of us in the 143 Battalion have spent more than six years in the North-East. Soldiers who arrived after us have been rotated, but we remain here. Signals for our rotation were sent, but they were never implemented.”
The soldiers noted that the prolonged deployment has led to misinformation among their families. “Our colleagues who returned to the barracks told our families that we refused to be rotated. This has caused misunderstandings. Our wives now doubt our commitment to returning, and many have turned to other men, including our colleagues and civilians,” another soldier said.
The soldiers warned that their reduced morale has weakened the military’s position against insurgents. “Our low morale and unwillingness to continue fighting have contributed to terrorists recently dislodging military camps,” they said.
The extended deployment has also had devastating effects on family dynamics. “Some of us have lost control of our families, and others have been divorced because of the long separation,” one soldier lamented.
A study by MedCrave highlights the psychological toll of prolonged deployments on Nigerian soldiers, linking extended missions to higher risks of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is marked by symptoms such as nightmares, severe anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about traumatic events.
The study emphasized the need to recognize the impact of deployment duration on soldiers’ mental health and called for policies to address the psychological scars of prolonged conflict.
The soldiers are pleading with military authorities to adhere to rotation schedules and prioritize their welfare. “We deserve to be treated like other units. What have we done to deserve this neglect?” one soldier asked.
The Nigerian military’s failure to rotate troops as stipulated continues to raise questions about its commitment to the well-being of its personnel. As insurgency persists, addressing the grievances of these soldiers is crucial for maintaining morale and operational effectiveness.
