Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigerian Army on Monday hosted soldiers wounded in action while fighting terrorists in the North-East to a special luncheon as part of activities to commemorate the 2026 Army Day Celebration, with military commanders describing their injuries as enduring symbols of courage and sacrifice. The event took place at the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital in Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State, where wounded troops were treated to a meal and words of encouragement from senior military officers. The luncheon formed part of a series of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration, an annual event that honours the courage, sacrifice and professionalism of officers and soldiers in safeguarding Nigeria's territorial integrity and supporting internal security operations.
Speaking at the event, the Theatre Commander of the North-East Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, said the occasion presented an opportunity to pause, reflect and acknowledge that every operational success was paid for by the courage, sacrifice and resilience of the soldiers. Represented by his deputy, Air Vice Marshal Olushola Akinboyewa, the Theatre Commander noted that the Nigerian Army recognises that its greatest strength is not its equipment or weapon systems, but the soldiers who continue to pay the price to ensure the safety of the nation. "Every community secured, every terrorist enclave dismantled, every innocent life protected and every flag of Nigeria that continues to fly proudly over liberated communities has come at a price. That price has been paid by men and women who answered the call of duty without hesitation," he said.
Addressing the wounded soldiers directly, the Theatre Commander said: "To our wounded soldiers, today is about you. You stood where the nation asked you to stand. You faced danger so that others could live in safety. The wounds you bear are not merely physical injuries; they are enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to Nigeria." He further noted that the names of those who lost their lives in the fight may not all be known to every Nigerian, but their sacrifice is written into every operational gain the theatre has achieved and every community that now sleeps in greater peace because of their service. "Their memory continues to inspire us, and we remain committed to ensuring that neither they nor their families are ever forgotten," he stressed.
The Theatre Commander also commended the doctors, nurses and other medical personnel for their dedication, professionalism and compassion in supporting the recovery of the wounded troops. "Equally deserving of recognition are the families of our wounded personnel. Your patience, encouragement and unwavering support have been an indispensable source of strength throughout this difficult journey, and the entire Operation HADIN KAI family deeply appreciates your sacrifices," he said. He added: "To our troops still serving across the Theatre, let today's event send a clear message. The institution does not forget those who sacrifice in its service. We stand together in battle, and we stand together afterwards."
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Solomon Diwa, said the scars of the wounded troops are not a mark of weakness, but badges of honour that testify to their bravery in the face of adversity. "As we share this meal, let it serve as a symbol of unity and brotherhood. It is a reminder that you are not alone, the entire Nigerian Army family stands firmly with you, and the nation you fought for holds you in the highest esteem. Your sacrifices inspire us to remain steadfast, to fight with courage, and to never relent until peace and stability are fully restored across our land," he said. He assured the wounded warriors that their welfare remains a top priority of the Nigerian Army, adding: "We fully recognise the challenges that come with recovery and rehabilitation, and every effort will be made to ensure you receive the best medical care and support available."
In a related development, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shu'aibu, also hosted a luncheon for wounded-in-action soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna, where he described their injuries as "badges of honour" earned in the defence of the nation. Represented by the General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Major General Abubakar Wase, who was in turn represented by the Chief of Staff of 1 Division Headquarters, Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, the Army Chief said every wound sustained in defence of the nation symbolises exceptional bravery rather than defeat. Drawing from personal experience, Shu'aibu recalled being wounded during military operations in the North-East and spending nearly three months receiving treatment and rehabilitation at the same hospital, an ordeal that deepened his appreciation of the physical and emotional toll of combat injuries, as well as the resilience required for recovery.
"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." The COAS pledged sustained investment in improved medical care, rehabilitation programmes, mental health services, prosthetic support, and family welfare initiatives to ensure wounded personnel live productive and fulfilling lives after active service.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which marks the establishment of the Nigerian Army, serves as a strategic platform for examining Nigeria's evolving security environment and strengthening efforts towards a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation. The annual event honours members of the Nigerian Army who have served in various peacekeeping operations and domestic security missions while remembering those who lost their lives in the line of duty. As Nigeria grapples with multiple security challenges across its geopolitical zones, the recognition of wounded soldiers and fallen heroes serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of the nation's fight against insurgency, banditry and terrorism. For the soldiers who bear the scars of battle, the message from the military leadership is clear: their sacrifice is not forgotten, and the nation stands firmly with them.
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