Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state has donated N23.5 million to
families of fallen soldiers in Gorgi community of Sambisa Forest.
Forty seven soldiers were killed on March 22, 2020 while conducting
patrol and clearance operations in Borno and Yobe states.
While presenting the cash donations to widows Friday at Maimalari
Cantonment, he disclosed that each of them would receive N500, 000.
His words: “The government and people share the grief of the military,
particularly those of bereaved families who died last week at a time
the country is faced with pandemic.
“We pray for the repose of the souls of these gallant soldiers, salute
and appreciate the supreme sacrifices. Nothing can compensate for
losing these precious brothers and patriotic Nigerians.
“We commiserate with their families and because we are at a tough and
unprecedented times, the government of Borno will support each family
with N500, 000.
“We hope the unfortunate incident will not dampen the spirit of the
gallant military in our shared fight against Boko Haram.”
The Governor also pledged to support the widows with cash for any
small scale businesses of their choice to enable them become
self-reliant.
On how engage the widows, he said: “The list of all the families
should be compiled, with each identifying the choice of small scale
business and bank account details attached to every name.
“This will enable state government transfer the startups packs and other tools.
“The widows and married women with children have borne the impact of
the sacrifices made by their soldier-husbands.
“We know your pains and we share them. We are proud of your husbands
and we salute them and you who stand by them.”
Zulum also announced the delivery of two transformers to enhance
electricity supply, adding that; “the state government would drill two
more boreholes to enhance supply and distribution of water the theatre
command.
He pledged to also rehabilitate the Maimalari Primary School to
improve teaching and learning.
In his brief remarks, the Acting GOC thanked the Governor for
identifying with the families of the fallen heroes in battle fields.
Ibrahim described Zulum as a true father that has given genuine
support and empathy for the military.
He gave assurance that the troops would not be deterred in their core
mandate of restoring peace in the country.
Mrs. Amina Usman, one of the widows thanked the governor for
supporting them, assuring that they would use the donation to improve
their livelihoods.
