Governor Zulum Mourns Slain Soldiers, Donates N50 Million to Families
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and seven other soldiers from Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK). He described their sacrifice as a painful yet heroic act in the ongoing counter-terrorism operations within the state. The governor made these heartfelt remarks during a burial ceremony held on Wednesday at the Maimalari Cantonment military cemetery in Maiduguri, where the fallen troops were laid to rest.
A Solemn Tribute to Fallen Heroes
In an emotionally charged address, Governor Zulum stated, "Today, we gather in solemn memory to witness another sad event—the burial of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and seven other troops of Operation Hadin Kai, who paid the supreme price while protecting the lives and property of our people." He extended condolences on behalf of the government and citizens of Borno State to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Defense, Chief of Defense Staff, Chief of Army Staff, the entire Nigerian Armed Forces, and the bereaved families across the nation.
Addressing Terrorist Threats and Military Morale
Zulum highlighted that recent targeted attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on military commanders are deliberate attempts to weaken troop morale. He assured that efforts are underway to reverse this alarming trend at the Theatre Command of operations. "The resurgence in the killing of combatant officers and men is a deliberate attempt to demoralize our armed forces, but we shall do everything possible to reverse this trend, Insha Allah," he affirmed. The governor commended the courage and resilience of the Nigerian military, noting that soldiers remain primary targets in the conflict.
Commitment to Strengthening Military Capacity
Governor Zulum reaffirmed the commitment of both the Federal and State governments to enhancing the military's capacity to end the approximately 17-year terrorism by Boko Haram and ISWAP in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. He emphasized, "The Federal Government under President Tinubu, alongside the Northern Governors Forum and the Northeast Governors Forum, is making frantic efforts to provide necessary support and assets to protect our armed forces and civilians."
Financial Assistance and Support for Families
In a significant gesture of support, Zulum announced a N50 million financial assistance package as immediate relief for the bereaved families. "As an immediate support to cushion the effect of this tragic loss of lives, the Borno State Government will release N50 million to the family of late Brig-Gen. Oseni Braimah and other deceased personnel," he declared. The governor also prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes and urged their families to remain steadfast in faith.
Military Leadership Pays Tribute
Minister of Defense, Lieutenant General Christopher Musa (rtd), paid glowing tribute to Brigadier General Braimah and the other gallant soldiers, describing their deaths as the ultimate sacrifice for national peace and security. He commended Governor Zulum for his steadfast support in the fight against terrorism, stating, "I want to appreciate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, for his outstanding commitment in supporting the fight against terrorism in the North-East. We salute you, sir." Additionally, Chief of Defense Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, mourned the deceased personnel and expressed determination to end the war against insurgency and other criminal activities.
