By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted claims circulating in a viral social media video alleging neglect and poor welfare of Nigerian military personnel wounded in action, describing the assertions as misleading, inaccurate and unfair to the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
The video, credited to Lucky Udu Studio, had insinuated institutional indifference to the fate of soldiers injured during combat operations.
While acknowledging the right of citizens to raise concerns, the military high command said it was compelled to set the record straight and present verifiable facts to counter what it termed damaging misinformation.
According to the DHQ, the welfare of troops particularly those wounded in action remains a core moral and operational priority of the Armed Forces.
“All personnel injured in the line of duty are entitled to comprehensive medical care under established Armed Forces medical policies,” the DHQ said, stressing that treatment is provided either within Nigeria or abroad, depending on the severity and complexity of injuries sustained.
The military explained that critically wounded personnel are routinely evacuated to reputable medical facilities outside the country when required, while those treated locally receive care across the Armed Forces’ network of military hospitals and medical centres.
Where specialised attention is needed, referrals are made to civilian hospitals at government expense.
Medical evacuation, surgical intervention, rehabilitation, prosthetic support and long-term care, the DHQ said, are all integral components of the military’s welfare framework.
Beyond treatment, the Armed Forces noted that personnel whose injuries prevent continued service are not left stranded.
Such officers and soldiers are medically boarded under favourable conditions and granted access to pensions, gratuities and other statutory benefits in line with existing regulations.
The DHQ also dismissed claims that families of fallen soldiers are neglected, stating that next of kin are supported through death benefits, insurance payouts, pensions, educational support for dependants and sustained engagement by military authorities.
The assertion that “nobody cares” about wounded or fallen soldiers, the military said, is not only incorrect but undermines the sacrifices of personnel and the efforts of professionals working daily to care for injured colleagues.
“Wounded personnel benefit from structured rehabilitation programmes, counselling services, family support mechanisms and consistent command oversight,” the statement said, adding that some of the soldiers featured in the viral video are themselves living proof of ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
The DHQ further highlighted Nigeria’s participation in the Invictus Games, a global initiative that supports the recovery and reintegration of wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women through sports.
According to the military, Nigeria’s involvement underscores its commitment to the physical recovery, mental resilience and social reintegration of wounded personnel, with measurable impact on morale and public awareness.
While acknowledging that welfare systems require continuous improvement, the Armed Forces said constructive criticism remains welcome.
However, it warned that sweeping, unsubstantiated generalisations could demoralise serving personnel and discourage young Nigerians considering military service.
The DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and, above all, the welfare and dignity of the men and women who risk their lives daily in defence of the nation.
The military assured Nigerians that no wounded soldier is forgotten and no fallen hero is dishonoured.
