Zulum donates ₦150m in emotional tribute to soldiers

Zulum donates ₦150m to families of fallen soldiers killed by Boko Haram, offering emotional tribute and support to military heroes in Borno State

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, on Wednesday visited families of three Nigerian Army officers killed by Boko Haram terrorists and donated a total of ₦150 million as support and tribute in Maiduguri, Abuja, Kano, and Niger States, in a solemn gesture of solidarity with the bereaved families.

Also read: Doctors strike at OOUTH after shocking assault on female house officer

The Zulum Donates ₦150m to Fallen Soldiers’ Families initiative was announced through a statement by the Governor’s Senior Technical Assistant on Print and Digital Communication, Abdulrahman Bundi, who confirmed that the governor personally met with the widows and relatives of the deceased officers.

The fallen officers were identified as Lieutenant Colonel Umar Farouq, Lieutenant Colonel Salihu Iliyasu, and Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, all of whom were killed during counterinsurgency operations against Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.

Governor Zulum first visited the family of late Lieutenant Colonel Salihu Iliyasu in Abuja, where he expressed deep condolences and described the officer as a committed patriot who served the nation with distinction and courage.

He later presented a ₦50 million cheque to the family, offering what officials described as an emotional and powerful gesture of support to the grieving household.

Subsequent visits were made to Kano and Niger States, where he also presented ₦50 million each to the families of Lieutenant Colonel Umar Farouq and Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko.

The governor praised the slain officers for their bravery and sacrifice, noting that their contributions to Nigeria’s counterinsurgency efforts would remain deeply valued and remembered.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting families of fallen heroes, including wounded personnel and volunteer forces who have paid the ultimate price in defence of the country.

In a solemn tone, Zulum extended his condolences and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased, while asking for strength and comfort for their families during their period of grief.

The gesture was described by officials as part of a broader support framework that includes scholarships for children of fallen soldiers and continued welfare assistance for affected families.

Also read: Doctors strike at OOUTH after shocking assault on female house officer

The Donation to Fallen Soldiers’ Families has been widely seen as a compassionate response to the human cost of Nigeria’s ongoing counterinsurgency operations, reinforcing the emotional bond between the state government and military families.

David Okere