The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked reports circulating on social media alleging that it has neglected wounded in action personnel.
The military high command maintained that, contrary to a viral video alleging “lack of care and institutional indifference to the welfare of military personnel wounded in action,” the welfare of its personnel, especially those wounded in action, remains a top moral priority.
According to a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on Tuesday, all personnel injured during operations or combat are entitled to comprehensive medical care, both locally and abroad, depending on the nature and severity of injuries, under established Armed Forces medical policies.
The statement said, “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 Nigeria, wounded personnel receive treatment across the Armed Forces’ network of military hospitals and medical centres, complemented where necessary by referrals to specialised civilian facilities at government expense. Medical evacuation, surgery, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and long-term care are integral parts of this framework.”
“The Armed Forces also maintain favourable discharge and medical boarding conditions for personnel whose injuries prevent further service, ensuring access to pensions, gratuities, and other statutory benefits in line with extant regulations.
“In addition, families of personnel killed in action are not abandoned. They are supported through death benefits, insurance payouts, pensions, educational support initiatives for dependants, and continuous engagement by military authorities.”
The DHQ noted that beyond medical treatment, wounded personnel benefit from structured welfare support, including rehabilitation programmes, counselling, family support mechanisms, and sustained command oversight.
It stated that the soldiers shown in the viral video were clear evidence of the military’s efforts to rehabilitate those wounded in action, as they were all living witnesses. This, it said, also proved that the report’s insinuation that “nobody cares” about injured or fallen soldiers was inaccurate and unfair.
“It suffices to mention that they serve as a courageous testimony to the great sacrifices made by personnel who continue to serve the nation in spite of the loss of many colleagues to death and injury in the course of the noble profession of arms,” the DHQ said.
The military high command noted that Nigeria’s involvement in the Invictus Games also underscored the military’s commitment to the physical recovery, mental resilience, and social reintegration of its wounded heroes.
“The positive impact of this initiative on morale, confidence, and public awareness has been significant and enduring.
“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 statement said.
