The Sokoto State Government has donated N38.25 million and food items to the families of 24 fallen soldiers and 57 injured military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in defending the country.
The donation, made on behalf of Governor Ahmed Aliyu by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bello Sifawa, comprised cash assistance, rice, maize and millet distributed to the beneficiaries.
Speaking during the presentation, Sifawa said the gesture demonstrated the government’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in protecting lives, maintaining peace and safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
He said the government recognised the challenges security personnel faced in the discharge of their duties and remained committed to supporting the military and the families of those who lost their lives in service.
Sifawa also expressed the state’s sympathy with the families of the deceased soldiers and wished the injured personnel a speedy recovery, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
Under the arrangement, each family of the 24 fallen soldiers received N1 million, while each of the 57 injured personnel received N250,000.
The government also distributed 105 bags each of rice, maize and millet. Each bereaved family received two bags of each grain, while every injured soldier received one bag each.
Receiving the items on behalf of the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, the Garrison Commander, Brig.-Gen. I.O. Amah, described the donation as a source of comfort and encouragement to the military.
“It is indeed heartwarming and consoling that Your Excellency values the lives of our soldiers. Of course, no amount can replace a life, but that singular gesture of reciprocity is what we value,” Amah said.
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He commended Governor Aliyu for the support, noting that the gesture reflected the government’s recognition of the sacrifices made by soldiers in the fight against insecurity.
Amah said the assistance would encourage serving personnel and provide relief to families whose loved ones died in the line of duty.
He also prayed for divine wisdom and strength for the governor and other leaders, expressing hope that the military would defeat criminal elements threatening peace and security in Sokoto State.