The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to providing the highest standard of medical care for wounded-in-action (WIA) soldiers, assuring them that their sacrifices in defence of the nation will never be forgotten.
His message was delivered on Sunday in Kaduna by the Chief of Administration at Army Headquarters, Maj.-Gen. Isah Abdullahi, during a working visit to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital—a facility widely regarded as the flagship medical centre of the Nigerian Army.
Abdullahi explained that the visit formed part of the COAS’s directive to assess the welfare, treatment, and recovery progress of soldiers injured in various ongoing military operations across the country.
“Last week, immediately after the COAS assumed duty, I visited this hospital to evaluate its operations and, most importantly, meet with our wounded-in-action soldiers,” he said.
“Following that visit, I was instructed to return in my capacity as Chief of Administration to further assess their condition, identify challenges facing the hospital, and recommend improvements where necessary.”
He noted that his tour of the facility and interactions with the injured personnel revealed substantial upgrades and a remarkable transformation in the quality of services provided by the hospital.
“It is evident that this hospital has undergone significant improvements. What we see here represents a complete paradigm shift from its previous state,” Abdullahi stated.
He added that the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital had become a true centre of excellence, providing care not only to military personnel but also to civilians from Kaduna and neighbouring states.
The Chief of Administration emphasised that the welfare of injured troops remains a top priority for the Army leadership.
“Your sacrifices for the nation are deeply appreciated,” he assured the wounded soldiers.
“We will ensure that you receive the best possible medical care with the ultimate aim of returning you to your duty posts as swiftly and safely as possible.”
Abdullahi expressed optimism that the visit would strengthen ongoing efforts to upgrade the facility and enhance its ability to meet the health needs of troops and civilians alike.
During the visit, he was accompanied by the Chief Medical Director of the 44 Reference Hospital, Brig.-Gen. Godwin Ogoh, along with other senior officers, as they toured various wards and engaged directly with the wounded soldiers receiving treatment.
The team also assessed key hospital departments as part of the broader effort to ensure that the facility remains one of the Army’s leading centres for trauma care, rehabilitation, and medical innovation.