24 Officers, men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces have been honoured by the Defence Headquarters for their gallantry professionalism, courage, resilience and commitment in the fight against insurgency in the North East of Nigeria.
The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor made this known in Abuja during Defence Headquarters Independence Dinner in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
General Irabor said “the dinner is to celebrate all the Airmen and Airwomen of the Armed Forces for their outstanding performance in ensuring that AFN remains united but there are some who distinguished themselves”.
He said “some of them have paid the supreme price as he took a minute of silence for them”.
The Minister of Defence, Retired Major General Bashiru Magashi who was the Guest Speaker said “it is great pride to see that the Armed Forces of Nigeria have created provision to reward those who performed well in their discharge of their duties both senior and junior officers”.
General Magashi commended the Chief of Defence Staff and all the Service Chiefs for the initiative and even putting together a commendable parade during the celebration of Nigeria’s 61st Independence.
He also said “their commendable roles they played in making sure there is security in the country”.
The Defence Minister assured the officers that their sacrifice will not be in vain as the government is aware of the effort in making sure there is peace in the country.
Magashi urged the officers to maintain the highest professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha said “it is a privilege given to him to be the last speaker adding that the sacrifice of the military laying their lives to secure the country is worth rewarding”.
Mr. Mustapha commended the Armed Forces for the great work they were doing as he consoled those that lost their loved ones in the course of discharging their duties.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff presented an award to honour posthumously, the late Lieutenant Colonel Abu Ali, who paid the supreme price in 2016 while fighting insurgents in the North East to the deceased officer’s wife and only daughter.
The Defence Minister, Chief of Defence Staff, all the Service Chiefs and Inspector General of Police and others presented awards to the awardees.
Ijarawa Dancers from Plateau State entertained the guests with their cultural dance.
All the Service Chiefs with their wives, Officers and Soldiers and other dignitaries were in attendance among others.
Hauwa Abu
