Nigerian Army on Monday hosted a special luncheon in honour of wounded-in-action personnel of Operation Hadin Kai as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, reaffirming its commitment to the welfare, recovery and long-term care of soldiers injured while defending the nation.
The event, themed ” _Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,”_ was held at the 7 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services and Hospital, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
Representing the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, described the gathering as more than a ceremonial luncheon.
“Today is much more than a luncheon. It is an opportunity to pause, reflect and acknowledge a truth that sometimes gets overshadowed by the pace of military operations—that every operational success we celebrate has been paid for by the courage, sacrifice and resilience of our soldiers,” he said.
He noted that every victory recorded against insurgents had come at a great cost.
“Every community secured, every terrorist enclave dismantled, every innocent life protected and every flag of Nigeria that continues to fly proudly over liberated communities has come at a price.
“That price has been paid by men and women who answered the call of duty without hesitation.
“To our wounded soldiers, today is about you. You stood where the nation asked you to stand. You faced danger so that others could live in safety.”
The Theatre Commander stressed that the injuries sustained by the troops symbolise extraordinary courage and patriotism.
“The wounds you bear are not merely physical injuries; they are enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to Nigeria. They remind us that freedom and security are never free—they are earned through the dedication of brave men and women like you.”
He also paid tribute to fallen soldiers.
“As we honour you today, we also bow our heads in solemn remembrance of our fallen comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our nation. Their names may not all be known to every Nigerian, but their sacrifice is written into every operational gain we have achieved and every community that now sleeps in greater peace because of their service.
“Their memory continues to inspire us, and we remain committed to ensuring that neither they nor their families are ever forgotten.”
According to him, courage extends beyond the battlefield.
“Military service has always demanded courage. But there are different kinds of courage. There is the courage to charge into battle, and there is the courage to endure its consequences.
“Many of you have demonstrated both. Your resilience throughout recovery is every bit as inspiring as your bravery on the battlefield. By refusing to surrender to adversity, you continue to strengthen the morale of your comrades who remain on the front line.”
He commended military doctors, nurses and other medical personnel for their dedication to the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded troops, while also appreciating the families of injured soldiers for their unwavering support.
Addressing troops still serving across the theatre, he said:
“Let today’s event send a clear message. The institution does not forget those who sacrifice in its service. We stand together in battle, and we stand together afterwards. That bond of trust is one of the greatest strengths of any professional military, and it is one we must continue to preserve.”
He assured the wounded personnel that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“Your service to Nigeria did not end on the day you were wounded. You remain an enduring source of inspiration to your fellow soldiers and to future generations who will wear this uniform.
“History will remember the victories achieved by Operation HADIN KAI. But those victories will always be inseparable from the courage, resilience and sacrifice of men and women like you.
“For that, the nation owes you not only its gratitude, but also its enduring commitment to your care, your recovery and your wellbeing.”
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander, Sector 1, Operation Hadin Kai, Brigadier General Solomon Diwa, described the wounded soldiers as symbols of sacrifice, resilience and patriotism.
“You are the living embodiment of sacrifice, resilience and patriotism. Your scars are not marks of weakness, but badges of honour that testify to your bravery in the face of adversity.
“The Nigerian Army, and indeed the entire nation, stands indebted to you. Your scars stand as enduring reminders that the peace enjoyed by millions of Nigerians has come at a great personal cost to courageous men like you.”
He said the 2026 NADCEL theme reflects the Army’s enduring commitment to national security and selfless service.
Brig. Gen. Diwa also praised the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for strengthening operational capabilities and improving troop welfare, while commending the Theatre Commander for enhancing operational effectiveness across the North-East theatre.
Reassuring the wounded troops of continued institutional support, he said:
“Your welfare remains a top priority of the Nigerian Army. We fully recognise the challenges that come with recovery and rehabilitation, and every effort will be made to ensure you receive the best medical care and support available.
“Beyond treatment, we are committed to providing opportunities that will help you regain strength and continue to lead productive lives.”
He also applauded medical personnel for their commitment to the treatment and rehabilitation of wounded soldiers.
“Their devotion reflects the Nigerian Army’s enduring resolve that no soldier who sacrifices for this nation will ever be forgotten.
“May this celebration renew our collective spirit and remind us that together, we are invincible.”
