The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that delay in the payment of Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) to soldiers is due to system glitches within the financial system.
It said the fault is not that of field commanders or the military high command.
This clarification comes after complaints from soldiers deployed under DHQ-led operations, particularly Operation Fasan Yamma in the North-West and Operation Whirl Stroke in the North-Central, who alleged that they had not received their RCA since August 2025.
“The issue of soldiers’ welfare has been a recurring one, and we have always explained that no field commander will be given money to feed his troops or pay their allowances and then refuse to do so,” said Maj.-Gen. Magnus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations on Thursday in Abuja.
“Yes, there may be some delay in some instances, but definitely, that RCA will be paid. A delay of a day or two could occur because of certain transaction issues. Nothing is perfect, no system is perfect.”
Kangye likened the situation to a family setting where a person transfers money to a relative, but the recipient does not immediately receive the funds due to banking system glitches.
The DHQ has assured soldiers that their allowances will eventually be paid.
Kangye emphasized that commanders are not withholding funds meant for personnel under their supervision, and that delays should not be misconstrued as deliberate attempts to deny troops their entitlements or undermine their welfare.
“Will you not tell her to wait? Maybe there is an issue with the bank. Is it not true?” Kangye said, highlighting the need for patience and understanding in such situations.
The RCA is meant to support soldiers’ feeding and welfare while on active field operations. Issues surrounding delayed or unpaid allowances have constantly surfaced over the years.
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