Vice President Kashim Shettima has honored six soldiers who recently lost their lives while repelling a terrorist attack in Damboa, Borno State, describing them as eternal heroes whose sacrifices will never be in vain.
The soldiers died on January 4, 2025, during an attack by the Islamic State West Africa Province/Boko Haram in Sabon Gari, Domboa Local Government Area.
The Vice President, in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by his Media Assistant Stanley Nkwocha, expressed profound sorrow and extended his firm solidarity with the families of the fallen heroes.
Shettima commended the soldiers for their bravery in defending the country, highlighting that their decisive action, aided by reinforcements and air support from Operation HADIN KAI, led to the neutralization of 34 terrorists and the recovery of weapons and ammunition.
Shettima noted that while the Nigerian military secured a major victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism, the price of freedom is steep.
He expressed deep condolences, stating that the six soldiers’ sacrifices remind the nation of the extraordinary cost of peace and security. He reassured the grieving families that their loved ones did not die in vain and emphasized that their memory will inspire future generations.
According to him, “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I received news of our brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation in Damboa. These six valiant soldiers demonstrated exceptional courage in the face of danger by protecting their fellow citizens.”
The Vice President lauded the soldiers’ heroism, saying, “Their sacrifices remind us of the extraordinary price of peace and security. These heroes died ensuring that their fellow Nigerians can live in safety, free from the scourge of insecurity that has impacted our country.”
He reassured the grieving families that their beloved children did not die in vain, noting that “their sacrifices will be forever remembered in our nation’s history, and their memory will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians.
“To our armed forces, your unwavering commitment to protecting our citizens, even at the cost of your own lives, fills us with profound gratitude and respect. We will continue to support you and provide all necessary resources to ensure you can carry out your duties effectively,” Shettima added.
He further urged Nigerians to honour the fallen heroes by standing firm in the collective pursuit of peace and security.
“May Allah grant our fallen heroes Aljannah Firdaus, comfort their families, and give us all the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the Vice President prayed.
In addition, the Senate Committee on Army expressed sadness over the loss of the six soldiers and offered condolences to their families. The statement, issued by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, Chairman of the Committee, commended the Nigerian Army for its tireless efforts in combating terrorism and resolving conflicts. The Committee reiterated its commitment to supporting the military in its efforts to ensure the peace and security of Nigeria.
As the Nigerian Army prepares for Remembrance Day on January 15, 2025, the Committee assured that the fallen heroes would not be forgotten, and their bravery would continue to inspire future generations. The Senate Committee on Army also expressed solidarity with the Nigerian Army during this difficult time.
Part of the statement read, “On behalf of the Committee, I wish to extend our condolences go to the Nigerian Army and the families of the fallen heroes.
“We wish to commend the tireless efforts of the military in resolving conflicts and in fighting against terrorism.
“The Committee remains committed to supporting the army in their noble endeavors. We urge them not to succumb to the death of their colleagues but to continue fighting for the peace and security of Nigeria.
“As the army prepares to commemorate Remembrance Day on January 15, we assure them that the fallen heroes will not be forgotten.
“Their bravery and sacrifice will be remembered and honoured, while their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
“Finally, the Senate Committee on Army stands in solidarity with the Nigerian Army during this difficult time.”
