Ministers Honour Slain Soldiers; Federal Government Pledges Final Defeat of Terror

The Minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa (retd.), alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, on Tuesday, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to end terror and restore peace in the North-East.

The ministers stated this as they paid tribute to soldiers killed in action during counter-insurgency operations in Borno State.

The ministers arrived at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri with senior military officers, including the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj Gen Abubakar Abdulsalam, where wreaths were laid in honour of the fallen personnel.

Earlier, they visited Governor Babagana Zulum and sympathised with the state over a recent bomb blast that claimed 23 lives and injured 108 others.

During the visit, Musa assured that the Federal Government would sustain efforts to end terrorism in the region.

He said, “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.

“Mr President is determined to give the necessary support to the members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in achieving that aim.”

He also commiserated with victims of the attack and offered prayers for the deceased.

“We commiserate with all those who have lost their lives and properties in the bomb blast a fortnight ago. We pray to God for His mercy on their souls,” he said.

Responding, the Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur, who represented the governor, commended the Armed Forces for their role in stabilising the state.

“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.

“During the recent bomb blast, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, led by their commander, stood by us, and they have been doing a wonderful job,” Kadafur said.

He, however, called for improved synergy between ground and air components of Operation Hadin Kai to enhance operational effectiveness.

At a recent burial ceremony for fallen soldiers, the Theatre Commander, Maj Gen Abdulsalam Abubakar, described the losses as a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel.

“In the profession of arms, there are moments of victory that fill us with pride… 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.

He added that the fallen soldiers demonstrated courage, selflessness and dedication to duty.

“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.”