By Micah Jonah
January 28, 2026
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed claims circulating in a video by content creator Lucky Udu Studio, alleging neglect and indifference towards Nigerian military personnel wounded in action.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the DHQ said the video presents misleading impressions that do not reflect reality.
The video, which features interviews with injured soldiers, sparked widespread discussion on the welfare of Nigeria’s armed forces. Soldiers recounted injuries sustained from encounters with Boko Haram and bandit groups, some displaying prosthetic limbs.
Speaking in the video, Udu criticized the level of support, stating, “Their welfare is not even taken seriously. They’ve been abandoned and left to care for themselves.”
The DHQ, however, emphasized that the welfare of wounded personnel remains a “top moral priority” for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a video circulating on social media making claims and insinuations regarding the welfare of members of the AFN wounded in action. While the AFN respects the right of citizens to express concerns, it is important to correct misleading impressions and place verifiable facts on record,” the statement read.
Uba explained that all personnel injured during operations or combat are entitled to comprehensive medical care, provided both locally and abroad depending on the severity of injuries. Within Nigeria, wounded personnel receive treatment in military hospitals, with referrals to specialised civilian facilities as needed.
He added that medical evacuation, surgery, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and long-term care are integral parts of the support framework. Personnel unable to continue service are entitled to favourable discharge, pensions, gratuities, and other statutory benefits. Families of those killed in action also receive death benefits, insurance payouts, and educational support for dependants.
Uba cited the participation of injured soldiers in Nigeria’s delegation to the Invictus Games, a global sports recovery platform as evidence of the AFN’s commitment to their physical recovery, mental resilience, and social reintegration.
While acknowledging that welfare systems require continuous improvement, the DHQ warned against sweeping generalisations that undermine the work of professionals and could discourage young Nigerians from considering a military career.
“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 concluded.
