The remains of 17 soldiers, including four officers and 13 soldiers, who were slain by youths in Okuama Community, Delta State, during a peace mission on March 14, have been laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
President Tinubu expressed his condolences, honoring the fallen officers as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
He announced posthumous honors, including the Member of the Order of the Niger for the commander and three other officers, and the Officer of the Republic for the remaining 13 soldiers.
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In a tribute to the fallen heroes, Army Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja emphasized the gravity of military service, stating that it is a matter of life and death.
He expressed his deepest sorrow as a military leader for the loss of soldiers, acknowledging the risks and sacrifices made by servicemen in the line of duty.
Voice Insert: Army Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaj
The ceremony was attended by other top military officials including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; and Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
Additionally, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, were present to pay their respects to the fallen soldiers.
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