The Defence Headquarters, in collaboration with the Tribute to Our Troops (TTOT) Foundation, has emphasised the importance of recognising the dedication of Nigeria’s Armed Forces in fostering unity and safeguarding the nation.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa expressed the need to celebrate the resilience and bravery of servicemen and women who commit their lives to national security.
Represented by Air Vice Marshal Anthony Ekpe, Director of Civil-Military Relations at Defence Headquarters, General Musa outlined the objectives of the third edition of Tribute to Our Troops: “A Nation’s Gratitude,” describing it as a movement that combines music, culture, and philanthropy to honour the sacrifices and bravery of Nigeria’s servicemen and women.
General Musa noted that the initiative offers a unique platform to connect the military with the civilian population, emphasising the importance of mutual understanding and collaboration for the progress of our great nation.
The event, supported by the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, seeks to inspire a deeper sense of patriotism and national pride while celebrating the cultural diversity that defines Nigeria.
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General Musa urged the media to amplify the message of gratitude and appreciation for the Armed Forces’ critical role in maintaining peace and stability.
“We are confident that this third edition of Tribute to Our Troop will inspire a deeper sense of national pride and solidarity among Nigerians. We urge you, gentlemen of the press, our esteemed partners in nation-building, to amplify this message of appreciation of our troops and their roles in ensuring peace and stability of our nation,” he added.
Honouring Heroes
Founder of the Tribute to Our Troops Foundation, Olivia Adom, described the initiative as a national platform for honour and remembrance. She highlighted the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces in preserving the nation’s peace and territorial integrity.
The 2024 edition, themed “A Nation’s Gratitude,” accompanied by the hashtag #ThankYouSoldier, introduces a Wall of Fame to celebrate fallen heroes and provide Nigerians with an opportunity to express love and respect for the country’s servicemen and women.
Adom paid tribute to notable heroes, including the late Lieutenant General Tariq Labaja and Lieutenant Commodore Gideon Gwaza, who died while saving lives.
She explained that the Wall of Fame allows families and communities to come together to honour these sacrifices, adding that it is a way of ensuring that their bravery is never forgotten.
Welfare for Families of Fallen Heroes
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, reassured Nigerians of the military’s commitment to the welfare of families of fallen heroes.
He detailed various schemes in place, including educational support for children, financial packages, and welfare programs during festive seasons.
“We have schemes for their children to go to school, and additionally, from time to time, welfare packages are given to them. The services ensure that they reach out to those widows that were left behind by our fallen colleagues, our fallen heroes,” he said.
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