The army has launched an investigation into a reported case of child abuse at the Nigerian Army Training Centre located in the Kontagora Military Cantonment in Niger State.
A statement released on Thursday by Major Godfrey Abakpa, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, indicated that the incident was reported on Wednesday.
The situation came to light when a soldier from a neighboring apartment heard the cries of a distressed seven-year-old girl.
Upon entering the residence, the soldier allegedly found the child being physically abused by two sisters who are her relatives and guardians.
The statement noted, “The Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC) has initiated an investigation into an alleged child abuse case reported on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the Kontagora Military Cantonment. The incident was revealed after a neighboring soldier heard a child’s distress cries from an adjacent apartment. Upon accessing the residence, he reportedly found a seven-year-old girl being physically assaulted by two sisters identified as her relatives and guardians.”
Initial findings suggested that the child was allegedly punished due to concerns about her whereabouts. Further information indicated potential neglect, including lack of meals and restrictions on using basic household facilities. Eyewitnesses also claimed that similar incidents may have occurred previously despite prior warnings.
The statement said preliminary findings suggest that the child was allegedly being punished for concerns regarding her earlier whereabouts.
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Additional information, the army stated, implies possible neglect, including denial of meals and restrictions on basic household facilities.
“Eyewitness accounts further allege that similar incidents may have occurred in the past despite previous cautions,” the statement disclosed.
Also, the statement said that the child had been living with her uncle’s family in the cantonment after her father’s death, and was brought to the barracks for care and to continue her education.
It said further that in response to the report of the abuse, the commander of the cantonment, instructed the NATRAC military police to carry out a thorough investigation to clarify the details surrounding the incident.
The army said the child has been taken to the Kontagora Military Cantonment Medical Centre for medical assessment and is reported to be in stable condition.
“While the investigation is ongoing, the child has been temporarily placed in the care of a family within the cantonment who has volunteered to provide support.
“The NATRAC authority emphasizes its strong dedication to the welfare and protection of children and dependents of personnel serving in defense of the nation.
“The public can be assured that appropriate and strict measures will be implemented in line with existing regulations once the investigation concludes,” the statement assured.
