“COAS Shaibu Visits Battle-Injured Troops, Says ‘Your Sacrifice Will Never Be Forgotten’”
By Passman Akpos
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the welfare and recovery of its wounded personnel during a visit to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, on Friday, 21 November 2025.
The visit formed part of his maiden operational tour of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA Area of Responsibility.
Addressing the wounded troops, General Shaibu praised their courage, resilience and sacrifice in defending the nation. He assured them of continued top-tier medical support, noting that their wellbeing remains a priority under his leadership.
In a deeply personal reflection, the COAS revealed that he was once admitted to the same facility after sustaining injuries in action, a testimony he said enables him to fully appreciate the physical and emotional challenges injured soldiers endure. He expressed confidence in the standards of care at the hospital, assuring personnel that they would receive optimal treatment throughout their recovery.
General Shaibu urged the troops to follow their prescribed treatment plans diligently and reiterated his broader commitment to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian Army personnel and their families.
While at the facility, he commended the Medical Director, Brigadier General Godwin Ogoh, alongside officers, soldiers and civilian medical staff for their professionalism, dedication and “selfless service to humanity.” The COAS, accompanied by principal staff officers from Army Headquarters, also toured the hospital to assess ongoing upgrades and operational improvements.
Continuing his operational tour, the Army Chief proceeded to Headquarters Sub-Sector 4 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA along the Kaduna–Abuja Highway. There, he interacted with troops on the frontline and evaluated their morale and combat readiness, reaffirming support for their mission under the Joint Task Force.
The visit underscores the Army leadership’s renewed emphasis on troop welfare, operational efficiency and frontline engagement.APPOLONIA ANELELieutenant ColonelActing Director, Army Public Relations.
