Case 1:

Captain Uzochukwu was involved in a forward-clearing operation to dislodge some bandits that had been terrorizing a major highway and causing fear and panic in neighbouring towns. His officers and men carried out reconnaissance missions and provided intelligence for the successful attack. Unfortunately, he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) and lost a leg.

He spent five months recuperating in the hospital, undergoing at least three major surgeries. Though he was grateful to be alive, he felt saddened that his years of active military service had been abruptly cut short by the injury. He, however, took solace in the fact that the operation was successful and that the bandits were neutralized.

His mother worried about his future — especially about how he would find a wife given his new disability — but he remained proud of his service. He took pride in the professionalism with which the operation had been executed and had no regrets about dedicating his life to the service of the nation.

Case 2:

Flight Lieutenant Musa was thrilled to fly a Tucano aircraft in the battle against insurgents in the North-East and North-West regions of the country. He was proud that the Air Force finally had the equipment to inflict maximum damage on the enemies of the state who were terrorizing citizens.

Sadly, after a successful operation, the Tucano developed a mechanical fault on its way back to base, and all five officers on board crashed and died on the spot. His young widow was left devastated, struggling with the reality of raising their three children alone. She had always feared such a day but prayed it would never come. Now, her worst nightmare had become her reality.

Case 3:

Commander Oyebola was actively involved in operations to curtail illegal refineries and oil bunkering in the creeks of the Niger Delta. During one of their night-time sorties to intercept a bunkering operation, a fire caused a pipeline explosion. He watched helplessly as some of his men suffered severe burns — some later succumbing to their injuries.

He was deeply traumatized by the incident. He often had nightmares about that fateful night, vividly hearing the screams of his men. His wife reported that he sometimes screamed "No! No! No!" in his sleep, drenched in sweat. Though she suggested he see a mental health professional for possible Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), he refused — insisting that he was not weak.

Discussion

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on the 15th of January, honours the sacrifices and service of Nigeria's armed forces — both past and present. These brave men and women dedicate their lives to safeguarding our nation's peace and security, often at great personal and emotional cost. Unfortunately, their sacrifices, and those of their families, often go unnoticed and unappreciated by much of the populace.

In recognition of this, the Asido Foundation seeks to extend appreciation to our armed forces in a way that uplifts their spirits and promotes mental health awareness within their ranks. The campaign also aims to foster empathy and civic appreciation among Nigerians.

The campaign, running from 15th January to 15th February 2025, encourages all Nigerian citizens to personally thank officers and men of the armed forces for their service. Citizens are also encouraged to take photos with them and share these on social media using the hashtags: #asidoremembers #armedforcesremembranceday #celebrateoursoldiers

This initiative also highlights the emotional and psychological toll that military service can exact. Some officers pay the ultimate price with their lives — like Flight Lieutenant Musa. Others lose limbs, like Captain Uzochukwu. Yet others, like Commander Oyebola, must live with deep emotional trauma. Sadly, stigma and shame around mental health remain prevalent, especially within the armed forces, preventing many from seeking help.

Conclusion

This campaign by the Asido Foundation is a laudable mental health advocacy initiative. By celebrating our armed forces and promoting mental health inclusion, we can help create a healthier and more supportive environment for those who dedicate their lives to keeping our nation safe. Together, we can make the world a better place — one person at a time.

Dr. Jibril Abdulmalik
Tribune Article for the column "Your Mental Health & You"
Thursday, 16th January 2025
Asido Foundation – www.asidofoundation.com
Asivuri Consulting – www.asivuri.com