Dean Onwuchekwa, a lance corporal in the Nigerian Army, has narrated his experience as a soldier who now has to live with disabilities suffered in the line of duty.

Onwuchekwa was trying to defuse a mine laid by Boko Haram terrorists while on a routine patrol when it blew up in his face.

The incident, which happened in the northern Nigeria in 2021, led to Onwuchekwa sustaining significant facial injuries. The explosion also led to doctors having both of his arms amputated.

“I started trying to adapt to life using my legs and my mouth and my cheeks. Now, I can do most daily activities by myself,” Onwuchekwa said in a recent interview with the BBC.

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In the video interview, Onwuchekwa could be seen lifting up his child with his limbs and operating a smartphone with his left toe. He was also seen wearing his Nigerian army uniform with little assistance from his wife.

“I trained myself; I started standing up by myself. Even without the help of people, I can stand up by myself,” Onwuchekwa said.

After the incident, and in 2023, Onwuchekwa participated in the para-snow sport event of the Invictus Games held in Colorado, United States of America.

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He narrated how he fell down more than 20 times while participating at the games but still managed to pick himself up so he could compete. He eventually won gold in the snowboarding category.

“Someone can be healed through my story or someone can be healed just seeing me snowboarding,” Onwuchekwa said.

“So, why would I sit down? The thought of inspiring others is one that challenges me to do more.”