By Chimezie Godfrey
The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has paid tribute to officers and soldiers who died in the line of duty, describing them as courageous patriots whose sacrifices will never be forgotten.
Abubakar spoke on Friday during the burial ceremony for the fallen troops at the Maimalari Military Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Addressing families, troops and dignitaries at the ceremony, the theatre commander said the moment was a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in defence of the nation.
“In the profession of arms, there are moments of victory that fill us with pride and affirm the strength, courage and unity that define our service. Yet there are also solemn moments that weigh heavily on our hearts and remind us of the true cost of service, as we have witnessed today,” he said.
Abubakar noted that the fallen personnel demonstrated courage, selflessness and unwavering dedication to duty, adding that their loss was deeply felt not only by their families but also by the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the entire nation.
“They gave their lives in devotion to a cause greater than themselves – the nation, the people and the ideals they swore to defend. They were brave, loyal and courageous patriots whose sacrifices will never be forgotten,” he said.
He added that the soldiers fought with valour and upheld the finest traditions of the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“They endured hardship so that our flag would continue to fly high. Their sacrifices remind us that freedom is not free; it is secured by the steadfast resolve of patriots willing to place duty above self,” he added.
The theatre commander assured the families of the deceased personnel that their entitlements would be processed promptly to support their loved ones.
He also extended condolences on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Security Trust Fund, Alhaji Mustapha Ali Yabe, commiserated with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and Operation HADIN KAI over the loss.
Zulum described the deaths of the soldiers as painful and commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience and commitment to protecting the state.
He added that the Borno State Government would continue to support the families of the fallen soldiers and the military in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers from Headquarters Theatre Command and 7 Division Nigerian Army, the Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade, government officials, the Chairman of Damboa Local Government Area, as well as families and next of kin of the deceased personnel.