The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has described injuries sustained by Nigerian soldiers during military operations as “badges of honour” earned in the defence of the country.
Shaibu made the remark on Monday during a luncheon organised for Wounded-in-Action (WIA) soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, as part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
COAS pledges continued support for wounded troops
Represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, whose remarks were delivered by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division Headquarters, Brig.-Gen. Timothy Opurum, the Army Chief assured wounded personnel that the Nigerian Army remains committed to their welfare, rehabilitation and reintegration.
He said the sacrifices made by injured soldiers in the line of duty would never be forgotten.
Shaibu recalls personal recovery after battlefield injury
The COAS also shared his own experience of being wounded during military operations in Nigeria’s North-East.
According to him, he spent about three months receiving treatment and rehabilitation at the same hospital, an experience that deepened his appreciation of the challenges faced by injured soldiers and the dedication of military medical personnel.
“Standing before you today as the Chief of Army Staff is a reminder that wounds sustained in the service of our nation do not define the end of a soldier’s journey.
“They testify to courage, sacrifice, resilience and the indomitable spirit that characterises the Nigerian soldier.
“Your injuries are not symbols of defeat; they are badges of honour earned in the defence of Nigeria through courage and selfless service.”
Army promises improved healthcare and rehabilitation
Shaibu said the Army would continue to prioritise:
- Improved medical care
- Rehabilitation services
- Mental health support
- Prosthetic services
- Family welfare initiatives
- Programmes to support the reintegration of wounded personnel
He also commended the Commander, officers and personnel of the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital for providing quality healthcare to injured soldiers.
The Army Chief further thanked the families of wounded personnel for their patience, sacrifices and unwavering support throughout the recovery process.
Hospital highlights expanded specialist care
Earlier, the Acting Commander of the hospital, Brig.-Gen. Godwin Ogoh, said the facility had continued to strengthen its capacity to provide advanced medical care for wounded troops.
According to him, the hospital now offers:
- Advanced emergency response
- Complex orthopaedic and spinal surgeries
- Reconstructive and ophthalmic procedures
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Prosthetic support
- Psychological care
- Functional rehabilitation
- Advanced radiological diagnostic services
Ogoh also praised the COAS for initiating the construction and equipping of a modern Critical Care Complex, describing the project as a major investment that will improve treatment for critically injured soldiers.
He reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to delivering timely, compassionate and professional healthcare while urging Nigerians to continue supporting members of the Armed Forces…See More
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