By Lawrence Audu
Force Commander, Multinational Joint Task Force MNJTF, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has emphasized the need to keep alive, the memories of fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the quest for peace.
He stated further that the MNJTF deeply appreciates the sacrifices of these gallant troops as they alongside their colleagues have dedicated and sacrificed their lives for the freedom and prosperity of the society. “They are indeed the pride of the Lake Chad Region and particularly Nigeria. Our debt to these heroic and valiant troops and other partners can never be paid or compensated, it is only but a show of gratitude and appreciation. They have earned our undying gratitude and we will never forget their sacrifices.”
General Ibrahim gave the solemn remarks at the Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri during the presentation of token compensation grants to troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force who were injured or killed during the MNJTF’s Operations Sharan Fage and Lake Sanity conducted during his watch as Force Commander.
A total of N23 million naira cheques were presented to next of kins of 21 fallen heroes and wounded in action soldiers during the two Operations.
The Force Commander expressed deep appreciation to the Theatre Commander and the General officer Commanding 7 Division for finding time out of their busy schedules to be present noting that their presence further reaffirms the strong collaboration and existing synergy between the MNJTF and Op HADIN KAI as well as their commitment to the welfare of our troops and indeed their families.
“As you are all aware, the MNJTF under my watch conducted 2 major operations, Operations SHARAN FAGE and LAKE SANITY. These operations alongside other minor operations of the MNJTF in collaboration with Op HADIN KAI and other national operations have led to the relative peace been witnessed in the Lake Chad Region today.
“As we all know, military operations is occasioned with casualties which is expected, particularly in asymmetric warfare. Therefore, today’s occasion is unique in several ways. Firstly, it is to appreciate and recognize the gallantry of our troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force who were injured or killed during the 2 MNJTF Operations.
“It is also to pay a token compensation to the next of kins of killed in action troops and wounded soldiers in the 2 major operations conducted under my watch.”
Taking a quote from a former American President, the FC said: “And if words cannot repay the debt we owe these men, surely with our actions we must strive to keep faith with them and with the vision that led them to battle and to final sacrifice”. Indeed, we owe them a duty to keep with them, and ensure the complete and total return to peace in the Region and we will not rest on our oars until sustainable peace is returned.”
General Ibrahim paid a special tribute to the strategic leaders of the Lake Basin Countries of Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Benin for their strategic vision in their desire for collective peace in this very important region of Africa.
The event concludes the payment of compensation and grants to troops as similar events have been held across the other 3 sectors of the MNJTF.
