From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has donated N38.25 million and grains to the families of 24 fallen soldiers and 57 injured military personnel in recognition of their sacrifices in the service of the country.
The donation, presented on behalf of the state government by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barrister Bello Sifawa, included rice, maize and millet for the beneficiaries.
Speaking at the presentation, Sifawa said the sacrifices made by soldiers in protecting lives, maintaining peace and safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity deserved recognition and appreciation.
He noted that the donation reflected the state government’s solidarity with the military and its commitment to supporting personnel who risk their lives in the discharge of their duties, as well as the families of those who died in service.
The SSG expressed the government’s sympathy with the families of the fallen soldiers and wished the injured personnel a speedy recovery, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
Sifawa, who was accompanied by the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Col. Ahmed Usman, and other government officials, said the state government recognised the critical role of the military in addressing insecurity and protecting residents.
Under the arrangement, each family of the 24 deceased soldiers received N1 million, while each of the 57 injured personnel received N250,000.
The government also distributed 105 bags each of rice, maize and millet. Each family of a fallen soldier received two bags of each grain, while every injured soldier received one bag of each.
Receiving the items on behalf of the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, the Garrison Commander, Brig.-Gen. I.O. Amah, described the gesture as heartwarming and a source of consolation to the military.
He said the donation demonstrated the state government’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by soldiers in protecting lives and maintaining security.
“It is indeed heartwarming and consoling that Your Excellency values the lives of our soldiers. Of course, no amount can replace a life, but that singular gesture of reciprocity is what we value,” he said.
Amah appreciated Governor Aliyu for supporting the military despite the competing demands of governance and the security challenges facing the state.
He also prayed for divine wisdom and strength for the governor and other leaders to steer the state towards greater development.
The Garrison Commander further prayed for the military to overcome the criminal elements responsible for insecurity in Sokoto State.
He said the support would encourage military personnel and provide relief to the families of those who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
