By Victor Alegbo
Assistant Society Gist Editor
A Nigerian soldier has sparked widespread conversation online after a video surfaced of him questioning the federal government’s decision to gift the Super Falcons N150 million, while many frontline military personnel continue to face poor welfare conditions and neglect.
The emotional outburst, which has since gone viral, captures the soldier—whose identity remains undisclosed—lamenting the state of the military, particularly those fighting insurgency in Nigeria’s northeast and other conflict zones. In his impassioned appeal, he asks, “What about us?” highlighting the frustration among service members who risk their lives daily with little or no recognition, insufficient allowances, and substandard living conditions.
“We are here sacrificing everything for this country. Some of us haven’t seen our families in years. Our allowances are delayed, our equipment is outdated, and we sleep in the bush—but the government has N150 million to give footballers?” the soldier says in the clip.
The federal government’s decision to reward the Super Falcons followed their commendable performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they emerged as champions. The gesture, intended as a celebration of national pride and encouragement for sports development, was announced by a top government official and welcomed by many Nigerians.
However, the soldier’s comments have reopened a long-standing debate about priorities, equity, and the treatment of those in uniform. While acknowledging the Falcons’ success, critics argue that the disparity in treatment between athletes and military personnel reflects deeper systemic issues in the country’s governance.
Social media platforms have since become a battleground for opposing opinions. Some users support the soldier’s sentiments, calling for urgent military reforms and improved welfare packages. Others argue that both sectors—defense and sports—serve the country in different ways and deserve recognition without being pitted against each other.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations and military veterans have called on the government to address the grievances raised, noting that morale within the armed forces is dangerously low. “You cannot win wars with soldiers who feel invisible and underappreciated,” one retired officer stated.
As public debate intensifies, many are urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take a more balanced approach to national recognition and reward systems, ensuring that those who bear the brunt of national security are not left behind in the country’s distribution of appreciation and resources.
The viral plea has become more than a soldier’s lament—it has become a mirror reflecting the growing disconnect between government policy and the lived realities of those on the frontlines.
