By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), Nigerian Army, 7 Division, Brig. Gen. Abubakar G.L Haruna, distributed palliatives to widows of fallen heroes who lost their lives in the counter-insurgency fight against Boko Haram terrorists.
The gesture was part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024, commemorating 161 years of the army’s existence.
Brig. Gen. Haruna said the occasion is a significant milestone in the annals of history of the Nigerian Army transformation from its birth to where it is today. ”
He said: “The Nigerian Army as we are all aware has a long tradition of history dated back to 1863 when Lt Glover of the Royal Navy selected 18 indigenes from the Northern part of the country and organised them into a local force.
” Today, that 18 men force has transformed into one formidable combat, efficient and stable Army that has kept the nation one and secured and this year marks the 161 year of its existence.
“As we gather here today to key into the Nigerian Army overall Celebration drive for this year’s NADCEL, let me state that this year’s celebration will be hosted by 3 Division Nigerian Army with a theme “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges Within a Joint Environment”.
“This clearly indicates the nexus between the theme and the Chief of Army Staff vision as the Nigerian Army has over the years grown from strength to strength, despite the myriads of security threats and challenges confronting the nation.
” In that regards, we have kept the nation peaceful and stable by performing our constitutional responsibilities as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He also recognized the President Bola Tinubu and Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja, for their leadership and vision in shaping the Nigerian Army into a formidable force.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our President, Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unwavering support and leadership.
“Your guidance and vision have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army into the formidable force it is today. Let me recognize the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja NAM, for his tireless efforts and visionary leadership style.
“His commitment to modernizing and strengthening the Nigerian Army is evident in our achievements, and we are grateful for his unwavering dedication.
The GOC praised the bravery and sacrifices of the fallen heroes and their families, assuring them of the army’s continued support.
“Today, we remember the courage and selflessness of our fallen heroes who have paid the ultimate price in defense of our nation. We honor their memories and recommit ourselves to upholding the values they fought for.
“To the widows and families of our fallen heroes, we acknowledge your sacrifices and appreciate your resilience. We recognize the pain and hardship you have endured, and we assure you that your loved ones will never be forgotten.
“That is why, this aspect of the activities marking the NADCEL 2024 is to ensure we render the little we can to assuage your plight in the face of the current economic challenges,” Haruna said.
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