The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, rehabilitation, and reintegration of wounded-in-action personnel, assuring them that their sacrifices for the nation will never be forgotten.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Yake Jingina Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 1 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 1 Operation said the COAS gave the assurance on Monday, 6 July 2026, during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) Luncheon organized in honour of wounded in action soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (44 NARHK) in Kaduna.
Lieutenant General Shaibu was represented at the event by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase, who was in turn represented by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Timothy Opurum.
In a deeply emotional goodwill message, the COAS shared his personal experience as a wounded soldier who once underwent treatment and rehabilitation at 44 NARHK after sustaining injuries while serving in the North East.
Describing his connection to the facility as deeply personal, he recalled the uncertainty, pain, and determination that marked his own recovery, while highly commending the professionalism, compassion, and dedication of the hospital’s medical personnel.
Addressing the wounded troops, the COAS urged them to remain hopeful and steadfast throughout their recovery process. He emphasized that their injuries should never be seen as symbols of defeat, but rather as badges of honor earned in the defense of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also expressed profound appreciation to their families, acknowledging their unwavering love, patience, and sacrifices.
Earlier in his remarks, the Acting Chief Medical Director of 44 NARHK, Brigadier General Godwin Ogoh, described the NADCEL Luncheon as a fitting tribute to the courage and selfless sacrifices of the personnel. He noted that the hospital remains committed to delivering timely, comprehensive, and world-class healthcare.
Brigadier General Ogoh also highlighted the ongoing construction and equipping of a modern Critical Care Complex, describing it as a major milestone that will strengthen the hospital’s capacity to provide advanced trauma care, specialist surgery, and diagnostic services for critically injured soldiers.In his vote of thanks, the Chief Clinician of 44 NARHK, Brigadier General IN Ijomanta, stated that the gathering truly celebrated sacrifice, resilience, compassion, and hope. Expressing delight at the joy on the faces of the soldiers, he reassured them of the hospital’s continuous commitment to their total well-being.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mrs. Queen Chinyere Opurum, representing the Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) 1 Division Chapter, alongside NAOWA members, senior staff officers, wounded in action soldiers, personnel of 44 NARHK, and family members.
High points of the celebration included vibrant cultural performances, the serving of refreshments, and a group photograph to mark the occasion.
