The Nigerian Army has laid to rest the remains of late Brigadier General Oseini Braimah, Captain Azubuike Michael Esimai, and six other officers and soldiers who died in active service while battling insurgents in Borno State.
The personnel were killed during a clash last Wednesday when suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked the 29 Task Force in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area.
The remains of Brig. Gen. Braimah, Captain Esimai, and the other fallen troops were buried with full military honours in recognition of their sacrifice and dedication to the nation.
The burial ceremony, held at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery, drew top government officials, senior military officers, and other dignitaries who gathered to honour those who lost their lives in ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.
Among those present were Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, Minister of Defence Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume.
In their tributes, the dignitaries described the deceased soldiers as patriots who stood firm in the face of danger and made the ultimate sacrifice for national security.
They noted that the courage and commitment demonstrated by the troops would continue to inspire future generations and remain a lasting part of the country’s history.
Governor Zulum, in his remarks, described the military as the nation’s shield, noting that their sacrifices have contributed to the gradual restoration of civil authority in areas previously controlled by insurgents.
“I want to assure you that the Borno State Government will never abandon you. We will continue to support you, especially those operating far from their comfort zones and confronting the harsh realities on the battlefield. We are fully aware of the sacrifices being made, and the situation is indeed very challenging,” he said.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Musa, told grieving families that their loss is shared by the entire nation.
“These were true patriots who stood firm in the face of danger so that others might live in safety,” he said.
Addressing the bereaved, he added: “Your grief is our grief; your loss is the nation’s loss. No words can truly fill the void left by your loved ones.”
He also urged troops of Operation Hadin Kai to remain resolute and intensify efforts against insurgents and other criminal elements.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Oluyede, described the occasion as both a time of mourning and reflection, emphasising the importance of recognising the sacrifices made by military personnel.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Shaibu, said the nation must not only mourn but also preserve the legacy of the fallen soldiers.
“In honouring them today, we reaffirm our commitment to care for the families they left behind, uphold the values they defended, and continue the mission for which they gave their lives,” he said.
He urged serving troops to draw strength from the courage of their fallen colleagues.
“Let their memories and courage strengthen our resolve and inspire our actions. Let their dedication remind us that the uniform we wear is a sacred trust. Though they have fallen, their spirits march on in the enduring strength and unity of this mission.
“We recognise the pain of this irreplaceable loss, and though words cannot fully console you, please take solace in the noble legacy of service and honour they left behind,” he added.
