The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has issued a strong rebuttal against circulating social media reports that allege neglect of military personnel wounded in action, categorically labeling such claims as misleading and factually inaccurate.
Military High Command Addresses Viral Allegations
In an official statement released on Tuesday, January 27, the Defence Headquarters through its Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, directly countered a viral video suggesting institutional indifference toward wounded service members. The military high command emphasized that the welfare of all personnel, particularly those injured during combat operations, represents a fundamental moral priority within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Comprehensive Medical Care Framework
According to the detailed clarification, all military personnel wounded in combat are entitled to receive comprehensive medical treatment strictly in accordance with established Armed Forces medical policies. The DHQ explained that injured personnel receive appropriate care either within Nigeria or at international medical facilities, with the decision based entirely on the severity and specific nature of their injuries.
The statement explicitly noted: "The Armed Forces of Nigeria routinely facilitates advanced treatment for critically wounded personnel in reputable medical facilities outside Nigeria where such care is required."
Within the country's borders, wounded soldiers are treated across the extensive network of military hospitals and medical centers, with provisions for referrals to specialized civilian healthcare facilities when necessary. All such medical interventions are conducted at government expense, ensuring no financial burden falls upon the injured personnel or their families.
Integrated Support Systems
The Defence Headquarters outlined a multi-layered support system that extends beyond immediate medical treatment. This integrated approach includes medical evacuation procedures, surgical interventions, rehabilitation programs, prosthetic provisions, and long-term care arrangements designed to address the complete spectrum of recovery needs.
For personnel whose injuries prevent continued military service, the DHQ detailed favorable discharge and medical boarding conditions that guarantee access to pensions, gratuities, and other statutory benefits. The military administration further emphasized that families of personnel killed in action receive sustained support through death benefits, insurance payouts, pension schemes, educational support initiatives for dependants, and continuous engagement with military authorities.
Structured Welfare and Rehabilitation Programs
Beyond medical treatment, the Defence Headquarters highlighted structured welfare support mechanisms specifically designed for wounded personnel. These include comprehensive rehabilitation programs, psychological counseling services, family support systems, and sustained command oversight to ensure continuous care throughout the recovery process.
Interestingly, the military pointed to the soldiers featured in the viral video as evidence of the Armed Forces' rehabilitation efforts, describing them as living proof that injured soldiers receive proper care. The DHQ characterized claims suggesting "nobody cares" about wounded or fallen soldiers as both inaccurate and fundamentally unfair to the institution's ongoing efforts.
International Recognition and Commitment
The statement referenced Nigeria's participation in the Invictus Games as tangible evidence of the military's commitment to physical recovery, mental resilience, and social reintegration of wounded personnel. According to the DHQ, this international initiative has generated significant positive impacts on morale, confidence levels, and public awareness regarding the sacrifices made by military personnel.
The concluding remarks reinforced the military's dedication: "The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to transparency, accountability and above all, the welfare and dignity of the men and women who risk their lives in defence of the nation."
The Defence Headquarters' comprehensive response aims to clarify misconceptions while detailing the extensive support systems available to wounded military personnel and their families, emphasizing institutional commitment to those who sacrifice for national security.
