The defence headquarters (DHQ) has honoured Muhammad Abu
Ali, a lieutenant-colonel and the then commanding officer of the 272 Task Force
Tank Battalion, who was killed by Boko Haram in 2016.
On November 4, 2016, Ali was killed by Boko Haram insurgents
when they attacked a 119 Battalion Nigerian army location at Mallam Fatori,
Borno state.
Ali led one of the army’s fiercest-ever battles with Boko
Haram in February 2015, culminating in the recapture of Baga town in Borno.
On Saturday, the DHQ, in a ceremony to commemorate Nigeria’s
61st Independence Anniversary, honoured 12 officers and 12 soldiers for
gallantry and professionalism.
The award of honour for Ali was received by Fatima Abu-Ali,
his daughter, supported by Samira Abu-Ali, his widow.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lucky Irabor, chief of defence
staff, rendered tribute to the late lieutenant-colonel for his dedication,
gallantry and professionalism in commanding troops against insurgents in the
north-east.
Irabor said the occasion is for members of the armed forces
to share moments of joy with some of its personnel who had distinguished
themselves on the battlefields.
He also commended the spouses of officers and soldiers who
had dedicated their lives to the service of the nation.
The chief of defence staff said members of the armed forces
are committed and resolute to the security challenges facing the country at the
moment.
“As we celebrate our
independence anniversary today, the armed forces of Nigeria is proud of its
role and effort in the Nigerian project,” Irabor said.
“Indeed, at no other time in our nation’s history have
members of the armed forces been so engaged as it relates to addressing the
current myriad of security challenges in our dear country that threatened the
very foundation of our unity, security and wellbeing.
“Rising up to this challenge, the armed forces had made
tremendous sacrifices in answering the clarion call.
“The armed forces of Nigeria remain resolute and undaunted
in the face of these challenges, and we shall be victorious.”
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