Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
MAIDUGURI – In a poignant ceremony on Friday, the Commander of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, led the armed forces in paying their last respects to courageous troops who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the nation.
The solemn burial service unfolded at the Maimalari Military Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, Borno State. Addressing the gathering, Major General Abubakar described the occasion as a stark and painful reminder of the heavy price exacted by military service.
“Within our profession, we experience moments of triumph that fill us with pride and showcase the strength and unity that define our calling. Yet, we are also confronted with solemn moments that weigh heavily on our hearts, reminding us of service’s true cost, as we have witnessed today,” he stated.
The Theatre Commander lauded the fallen personnel for their conspicuous gallantry, selflessness, and steadfast dedication to duty. He emphasised that their sacrifice represents a profound loss—not only to their grieving families but to the entire theatre of operations, the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the nation at large.
“They gave their lives in devotion to a cause far greater than themselves: their country, its people, and the very ideals they swore an oath to protect. They were brave, loyal, and courageous patriots, and their sacrifice shall never be forgotten,” Major General Abubakar affirmed.
He noted that the troops fought with exceptional valour, upholding the finest traditions of the Nigerian Army and the wider Armed Forces. “They endured immense hardship so that our flag might continue to fly high. Their sacrifice serves as a potent reminder that freedom does not come without cost; it is secured by the unwavering resolve of patriots willing to place duty above self,” he added.
Offering reassurance to the bereaved families, the Theatre Commander pledged that the troops’ sacrifices would not be in vain. He confirmed that all entitlements due to the deceased personnel would be processed without delay to support their loved ones.
On behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria, Major General Abubakar extended his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen heroes.
The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, also paid tribute. Represented by Alhaji Mustapha Ali Yabe, Executive Secretary of the Borno State Security Trust Fund, Governor Zulum conveyed the state government’s profound condolences to the Armed Forces and Operation HADIN KAI. He described the soldiers’ deaths as a grievous loss to the nation and commended all troops for their gallantry, resilience, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the state.
Professor Zulum assured the military that the Borno State Government would continue to provide steadfast support to both the families of the fallen heroes and the armed forces in fulfilling their constitutional duties.
The ceremony was attended by senior Borno State government officials, high-ranking military officers from Headquarters Theatre Command and 7 Division Nigerian Army, the Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade, the Chairman of Damboa Local Government Area, and the families and next of kin of the deceased personnel.
ENDS
SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
6 March 2026
