Defence Headquarters Dismisses Allegations of Poor Care for Injured Personnel

By Zainab Uzomah

Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has rejected claims made in a viral video alleging that military personnel wounded in action are being neglected by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

In a statement on Tuesday, Director of Defence Information Major General Samaila Uba said the video, released by Lucky Udu Studio, created a “misleading impression” of institutional indifference toward injured troops. He said the allegations were inaccurate and failed to reflect the structures already in place for the care of wounded service members.

According to the statement, all personnel injured in combat are entitled to comprehensive medical attention under established Armed Forces policies. This includes treatment in military hospitals across Nigeria and, when necessary, referral to specialised civilian centres at government expense. The Armed Forces, it added, also facilitate advanced treatment abroad for critically wounded personnel who require specialised intervention.

The AFN outlined a broader welfare framework covering medical evacuation, surgery, rehabilitation, prosthetics and long-term care. It said personnel unable to continue service due to injuries are processed under favourable medical boarding conditions and receive pensions, gratuities and other statutory entitlements. Families of those killed in action, the statement noted, are supported through insurance payouts, pensions, educational schemes for dependants and sustained engagement by military authorities.

The military dismissed the suggestion that “nobody cares” about wounded or fallen soldiers, saying such claims were unfair and harmful. It argued that the individuals featured in the video were themselves beneficiaries of ongoing rehabilitation programmes that demonstrate the institution’s commitment to the welfare of wounded troops.

The statement also highlighted Nigeria’s active participation in the Invictus Games, describing it as a platform that enhances the physical and mental recovery of injured service personnel. The initiative, it said, has had a strong impact on morale and public awareness.

While acknowledging that welfare systems require constant improvement, the Defence Headquarters urged the public to offer constructive feedback rather than sweeping allegations. It warned that unfounded claims risk discouraging young Nigerians considering a career in the military.

The Armed Forces, it added, remain committed to transparency, accountability and the dignity of the men and women who serve the nation.