Gov Zulum Commends Troops, Supports Families Of Fallen Heros and Wounded Personnel As Service Chiefs Celebrate Sallah With Troops

Gov Zulum Commends Troops, Supports Families Of Fallen Heros and Wounded Personnel As Service Chiefs Celebrate Sallah With Troops

The Executive Governor of Borno State, His Excellency Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and resilience of troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East Operation HADIN KAI (NE OPHK) in the ongoing fight against insurgency in the region. He made the commendation during the Combined Service Chiefs’ Sallah Luncheon with troops in the North-East, held on Saturday, 7 June 2025, at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.

Speaking at the event, Governor Zulum expressed his profound appreciation and solidarity to the Armed Forces on behalf of the resilient people of Borno State. According to him, the Combined Service Chiefs’ Sallah Luncheon serves as a reminder of the daily sacrifices made by troops in defending our nation.

While commiserating with the Armed Forces Nigeria (AFN) over the loss of personnel in recent attacks, particularly those wounded in action, Governor Zulum donated cash gifts to the affected personnel. He called for renewed effort in the fight against insurgency, reiterating that the people of Borno State remain eternally grateful to sacrifices of the gallant troops of the AFN.

He expressed satisfaction with the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff and his Air Force counterpart, noting that their leadership acumen has brought remarkable milestones and renewed commitment to the overall operational efforts in the theatre. The Governor charged the troops to deal ruthlessly with terrorist collaborators and sympathizers, stressing that they were more dangerous than the terrorists themselves and should be treated accordingly, regardless of gender.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Service Chiefs, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, reaffirmed the AFN’s role as the last line of defense for the nation. He praised the troops, describing them as frontline warriors bearing the sacred responsibility of defending not just Nigeria’s territory, but also the hopes and aspirations of over 200 million citizens.

The CAS specially commended troops for their recent operational feats across the various theatres of operations. He added that their boldness in the face of grave danger, their relentless pressure on insurgents and criminals, and their professionalism under intense conditions had earned them the admiration of the Nigerian people.

He further emphasized the critical role of air power in shaping the battlefield and degrading enemy capabilities, while acknowledging that ultimate victory is assured by ground troops. Paying tribute to fallen heroes, he stressed the importance of honoring those who paid the supreme price in defense of the nation, affirming that their sacrifices will never be forgotten. Addressing wounded-in-action personnel, he highlighted their bravery in close combat and their vital role in securing lasting peace, assuring them of continued air support, regardless of how remote their locations may be.

Air Marshal Abubakar also expressed deep appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unwavering support to the AFN. He further acknowledged the solidarity and assistance of the Borno State Government, which he described as crucial to their successes.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Theatre Commander (TC) JTF NE OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, described the Combined Sallah Luncheon as an opportunity and privilege for the troops to celebrate Eid El-Kabir with the Service Chiefs. He expressed confidence that their presence would further boost troops morale and fighting spirit in the theatre.

General Abubakar emphasized the resilience and determination of troops in the theatre stating that the presence of both the COAS and the CAS reinforces the synergy, cooperation and economy of efforts currently being witnessed in the Theatre which has optimised operational effectiveness as evidenced in recent successes recorded.

The event featured cultural performances by the Borno State Arts and Culture Troupe, presentation of cash gifts to families of fallen heroes and wounded-in-action personnel, and a special Sallah luncheon served to wounded troops by the Special Guest of Honour, Service Chiefs, and other dignitaries. The celebration climaxed with a group photograph.