The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shu’aibu, has described wounds sustained in the line of duty as “badges of honour,” saying they are tangible proof of courage and sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria.
Shu’aibu made the remarks on Monday at a luncheon held for wounded-in-action (WIA) soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna. The event formed part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) and brought together injured personnel, their families, and medical and military leaders.
He was represented at the function by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, who was in turn represented by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division Headquarters, Brig.-Gen. Timothy Opurum. The COAS told the wounded soldiers that their sacrifices would never be forgotten and reiterated the Army’s commitment to their welfare.
Speaking from personal experience, Shu’aibu recalled being wounded while on operations and spending about three months receiving treatment and rehabilitation at the same hospital. He said that period deepened his appreciation for the pain, resilience and determination required during recovery, and for the dedication of military medical personnel who support wounded soldiers.
“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,” he said. “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.”
Shu’aibu assured the injured troops and their families that the Nigerian Army would continue to prioritise improved medical care, comprehensive rehabilitation services, mental health support, prosthetic provision, family welfare programmes and other initiatives aimed at helping WIA personnel rebuild productive and fulfilling lives. He also commended the commander, officers and staff of the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital for their professionalism and dedication to quality care.
Earlier, the acting commander of the hospital, Brig.-Gen. Godwin Ogoh, outlined recent upgrades to the facility’s clinical capacity. He said the hospital had strengthened emergency response systems, expanded advanced surgical capability and developed multidisciplinary specialist care for combat-related injuries. The facility now performs complex orthopaedic, spinal, reconstructive and ophthalmic surgeries and collaborates with partner institutions nationwide to improve outcomes.
Ogoh said the hospital’s rehabilitation services — including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, prosthetic support, psychological care and functional rehabilitation — remain among the best available for wounded soldiers. He also highlighted advanced radiological services that provide accurate diagnostic support comparable to leading medical centres.
The acting commander praised the COAS for initiating the construction and equipping of a modern critical care complex at the hospital, describing the project as a major investment that will significantly enhance the facility’s capacity to manage critically injured soldiers requiring intensive and life‑saving care.
Shu’aibu also expressed appreciation to the families of wounded personnel for their patience and unwavering support during the recovery process. He urged Nigerians to continue honouring the sacrifices of troops who defend the country’s peace and territorial integrity.
The hospital commander reaffirmed his team’s commitment to delivering compassionate, timely and professional healthcare to wounded personnel. (NAN)
