By Usman Yahaya Ismail
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has announced a ₦50 million assistance package for the families of fallen soldiers.
This is as the Governor pledged sustained support for the military as they continue operations against insurgency in the North-East.
Zulum made this commitment during funeral prayers for Brigadier General Hussaini Omo Braima and seven other soldiers, held at the Maimalari Barracks Cemetery in Maiduguri.
He specified that ₦10 million would be provided to the family of the late Brigadier General, while ₦5 million each would go to the families of the seven other soldiers.
The soldiers were killed during an attack in Benisheikh, in what officials described as a renewed wave of assaults targeting military formations.
Describing the deceased as national heroes, the governor stated that their sacrifice in defense of the country would not be forgotten.
He expressed concern over the increasing attacks on senior officers but maintained that these developments would not deter the armed forces from prosecuting the war against insurgents.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, who attended the prayers, described the occasion as deeply emotional and commended the troops for their resilience on the frontline.
He urged Nigerians to support the military and warned against aiding terrorist groups. Similarly, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shuibu, noted that the fallen soldiers died in active service and assured the public that the military remains committed to defeating insurgency and restoring peace.
The funeral was attended by senior government officials, military officers, and other dignitaries, including Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume and the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijjani.