Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha presenting an award to an awardee at the ceremony in Abuja. Photo: Chukwuma Agbanusi
24 members of the armed forces including the late Lieutenant Colonel Abu Ali have been honoured and recognised for their contributions to the degrading of Boko Haram and other insecurity in the country.
The personnel were honoured by the Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor in Abuja at the Defense Headquarters Independence Dinner and award night to appreciate the armed forces as the nation commemorates its 61st independence.
For those who paid the supreme sacrifice, especially late Lt. Col. Abu Ali who died in combat while leading his troop to eliminate members of Boko Haram in Borno State, his wife was presented with the Victims Support Fund, Award of Gallantry, while those still in service were also honoured and recognised.
Gen. Irabor said these recognised personnel displayed a form of gallantry in the midst of danger but emphasised that the entire members of the armed forces should be appreciated for ensuring peace and safety in the country.
The Minister of Defense, Maj. Gen. Bashir Magashi (retd) said the present administration was concerned about the welfare of the force due to the importance of the armed forces to the nation.
Also at the award night, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Mr. Boss Mustapha called on Nigerians to always appreciate the sacrifices of the armed forces towards the maintenance of peace and stability.
Reporting by Chukwuma Agbanusi; edited by Muzha Kucha