Nigerian Army has laid to rest soldiers killed in action during ongoing counter-insurgency operations in Borno.

The burial took place on Friday at the Maimalari Military Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri.

Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-East Operation Hadin Kai, disclosed the burial in a statement on Saturday.

During the ceremony, the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, described the occasion as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.

“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,” Abubakar said.

He praised the fallen soldiers for their courage, selflessness and dedication to duty, noting that their deaths were a loss not only to their families but also to the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the nation at large.

“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 added, emphasising that the troops fought with valour and upheld the finest traditions of the Nigerian Army.

Abubakar also assured the families that all entitlements due to the fallen personnel would be processed promptly to support them. Condolences were conveyed on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Representing Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Security Trust Fund, Alhaji Mustapha Ali Yabe, expressed condolences to the Armed Forces and commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience, and commitment to safeguarding the state.

Zulum assured that the Borno State Government would continue supporting the families of the fallen soldiers and the military in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.

The ceremony was attended by senior military officers from the Headquarters Theatre Command and 7 Division Nigerian Army, the Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade, government officials from Borno State, the Chairman of Damboa Local Government Area, and the families and next of kin of the deceased personnel. (Saturday Tribune)