Christopher Musa, Minister of Defence, and Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, paid tribute to soldiers killed during operations against Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State. The ministers arrived at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri on Tuesday at approximately 2:38 pm. Furthermore, they joined senior officers from the Defence Headquarters and field commanders across the state for the solemn ceremony. As reported by ALO360, the two ministers laid wreaths in honor of the fallen soldiers who died during recent counter-insurgency operations. Additionally, the delegation included Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, and other military officials.
Federal Government Pledges Support
Musa assured residents that the federal government would not relent until total peace returned to the Northeast region. He stated, “Borno remains our home and whatever happens to Borno happens to all of us. We want to assure you that we will not relent until there is total peace.” Furthermore, he added, “Mr President is determined to give the necessary support to the members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in achieving that aim.” Subsequently, the ministers visited the Borno State Government House to sympathize with officials over a recent bomb blast that killed 23 people and injured 108 others. Musa also commiserated with victims of the attack and prayed for the souls of the departed. He said, “We commiserate with all those who have lost their lives and properties in the bomblast fourthnight ago. We prayed to God for His mercy on their souls.”
State Government Commends Military Sacrifice
Umar Kadafur, Deputy Governor of Borno State, received the ministers on behalf of Babagana Zulum, the state governor. Kadafur expressed profound gratitude to the military for their sacrifices in stabilizing the state. He stated, “We cannot thank you enough for your sacrifice. As a state, we sympathise with you over the loss of your soldiers from attacks in various locations across the state.” Additionally, he commended the troops for their support during the recent bombing incident. He noted, “During the recent bomb blast, troops of Operation Hadin kai, led by their commander, stood by us, and they have been doing a wonderful jobs.” However, he called for improved synergy between the ground and air components of Operation Hadin Kai to enhance operational successes.
Theatre Commander Honors Fallen Troops
Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar described the burial ceremony as a painful reminder of the costs of military service. He stated, “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.” Furthermore, he praised the fallen soldiers for their courage and dedication. He said, “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.” Additionally, he assured families of the deceased that the military would process all entitlements promptly to support them.
