Nigeria Must Prioritize The Mental Health of Nigerian Soldiers to Win the War, Avoid Tragedies
The mental health of Nigerian soldiers, especially those stationed on the frontlines, has become a serious national concern one that must be addressed with urgency.
In recent times, several videos have surfaced online showing exhausted soldiers expressing frustrations over conditions in the field. While not every detail in these videos can be verified, it is clear that something is broken and military authorities need to pay closer attention.
As a newspaper, we recognize the vital role that non-commissioned officers (NCOs) play in national security. They are the core of military operations, often enduring unimaginable stress and making sacrifices that most civilians may never understand. For this reason, protecting their physical and mental well-being is just as important as providing weapons or allowances.
Yes, the military has made efforts to address some of these challenges. But a comprehensive approach that includes strong mental health support is overdue. Combat fatigue is real, and without the right structure in place, it could lead to irrational decisions sometimes with deadly consequences.
Rotation Matters
Soldiers posted to combat zones shouldn’t stay there endlessly. Their posting must be regulated. After returning from the frontlines, they should be allowed to spend time in calmer environments not rushed straight back to civilian life. The sudden switch from life-or-death situations to everyday routines can cause emotional disconnection, depression, or even hallucinations.
We’ve seen cases where soldiers reportedly opened fire on colleagues, and in some cases, civilians. While each case is different, it’s hard to dismiss the role of untreated combat fatigue.
What Needs to Change
It is mandatory to make The Mental Health of Nigerian Soldiers and physical health our priority. Checkups should become routine before and after deployment. Military counsellors should be embedded with frontline units, providing emotional support and tracking soldiers’ psychological state. Therapy is not weakness; it is maintenance.
This care must also extend to families. Many soldiers’ wives, children, and parents live in constant fear. The trauma of possibly receiving “that call” weighs heavily on their daily lives, and this anxiety often goes untreated.
Mental Strength Wins Wars
It takes more than weapons to win battles. A mentally balanced soldier is far more effective than one suffering in silence. Victory in today’s warfare depends not only on firepower but also on resilience, morale, and emotional readiness.
We commend the military’s leadership for periodic visits to the frontlines. Such gestures boost morale and show soldiers that they are not forgotten. Even short personalised videos or messages from service chiefs can go a long way in lifting spirits.
Promote the Brave
Another motivator is recognition. Soldiers who show courage and leadership should be promoted without delay. Let their sacrifices be rewarded, not ignored.
At the recent celebration of the Nigerian Army’s 162nd anniversary, former Chief of Army Staff, Farouk Yahaya, stressed that “putting soldiers first” includes focusing on their well-being, training, and combat effectiveness. He acknowledged the complex threats the army faces today from terrorism to economic sabotage and the need to evolve strategies accordingly.
Current Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also echoed this by saying the “soldiers first” idea is about aligning the modern battlefield with the emotional and physical capacity of individual soldiers. He emphasized the need for mutual responsibility between soldiers and the institution.
Our Stand
As a media platform, we stand with the “soldiers first” campaign. But words must be followed by action. Nigeria’s leaders, civilian and military alike must put resources where their promises are. If we expect our soldiers to protect us with their lives, the least we can do is protect their minds.
