New Helipad Commissioned for Wounded Soldiers in Kaduna

On Tuesday, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), commissioned a new helipad at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (44 NARH) in Kaduna. This facility is designed to enhance the emergency air evacuation of wounded soldiers from operational theatres.

During the commissioning ceremony, Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized that rapid medical evacuation is crucial for saving lives and maintaining troop morale during ongoing military operations. He stated, “The ability to move our wounded personnel from the frontlines to definitive medical care within the shortest possible time is non-negotiable.

This helipad bridges that gap.” The helipad project was initiated under the leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede, who was the Chief of Army Staff at the time. Lieutenant General Shaibu praised General Oluyede for his foresight regarding troop welfare and described the helipad as a significant contribution to military healthcare and operational effectiveness.

He directed the medical and aviation units to ensure the facility's operational readiness and maintenance.