Concerns have been raised by parents over the declining conditions in Nigerian Army Command Secondary Schools, with allegations of mismanagement and inconsistent policies being cited as the cause. The schools, which total over 60 and are operated by the Nigerian Army Education Corps, were initially established to provide education to children of serving and retired military personnel. However, they have since opened their doors to civilians, creating a unique academic environment that combines military discipline with quality education.

In recent years, the schools experienced a decline in standards, but saw a revival under the administration of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. During his tenure, the daily feeding allowance for officers and soldiers, known as the Ration Cash Allowance, was increased from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000. This upgrade also applied to Command Schools, and the former Chief of Army Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, approved the same allowance for wards of serving and retired personnel. Furthermore, the Army Headquarters took over the payment of salaries for teaching and non-teaching staff in Command Schools, ensuring that no staff member earned less than the national minimum wage of ₦70,000.

However, a new financial policy introduced by the immediate-past Corps Commander Education, Major General Adebukola Peter Oguntola, at the start of the September 2025 academic session, has raised concerns among parents and staff. The policy requires all Command Schools to remit 20% of every revenue collected, including tuition, medical fees, sports, uniforms, and books, into a central account. This directive has been described as an Internally Generated Revenue initiative, but critics argue that it has become a “shadow tax” that is draining school resources.

Parents have expressed dissatisfaction with the policy, citing poor-quality meals, reduced portions, and lack of accountability. They argue that the schools were never intended to generate revenue for the Army, but rather to provide a welfare initiative for military families. The parents are calling on the new Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, to investigate the 20% deduction policy and order an independent audit of all remittances made since its introduction.

The Nigerian Army Education Corps has been contacted for clarification on the matter, but a response is yet to be received. The issue has sparked concerns about the management of Command Schools and the impact of the policy on the education and well-being of students. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Nigerian Army will address the concerns of parents and staff, and ensure that the schools provide a quality education and adequate care for their students.