In a solemn ceremony held at the Presidential Villa earlier today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu posthumously honoured the 17 brave soldiers who tragically lost their lives in a recent operation in Delta State. Recognizing their ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s peace and security, the President awarded the four ranking officers the prestigious Member of the Order of Niger (MON) and the remaining thirteen officers the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
In a speech that touched the hearts of all present, President Tinubu expressed the nation’s deep gratitude for the heroism and dedication of the fallen soldiers. “Today, we stand in solemn recognition of the heroes who paid the ultimate price for our nation’s peace and security. It is a profound loss not just to their families but to the entire nation. In honouring them, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our armed forces and their loved ones,” said President Tinubu.
The President did not stop at national honours. In a significant move, he announced the awarding of Federal Government scholarships to the children of the deceased soldiers, ensuring educational support up to the university level. This gesture underscores the government’s commitment to the welfare of the families left behind by our nation’s heroes.
Furthermore, President Tinubu ordered that all entitled benefits be expedited and paid to the families of the fallen heroes within 90 days. This directive aims to alleviate the financial burden on the bereaved families and ensure they receive the support they need without unnecessary delay.
The ceremony, marked by a moment of silence and the laying of wreaths, was attended by top military officials, government representatives, and family members of the deceased. It served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel in the line of duty and the nation’s responsibility towards them and their families.
Today’s events have been widely praised by the public and veterans’ associations as a significant step in acknowledging the sacrifices of our armed forces and providing tangible support to their families. The government’s actions today reaffirm its commitment to the welfare of both serving and fallen soldiers, ensuring that their bravery and sacrifices are honoured and remembered.
As the nation mourns its lost heroes, today’s ceremony and the measures announced by President Tinubu stand as a testament to the nation’s gratitude and commitment to those who have given their all in service to Nigeria.
