Christmas Outreach to Fallen Soldiers’ Families Strengthens Gratitude — Brig.-Gen Balogun

The Nigerian Army has described its Christmas outreach to families of fallen soldiers as a gesture aimed at expressing gratitude and reassuring them that the sacrifices of their loved ones have not been forgotten.

Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, Brigade Commander in Benin, said this during a Christmas luncheon organised for widows and children of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

According to him, the distribution of food items, clothing and cash gifts was meant to remind the families, particularly the widows, that the Nigerian Army remains committed to their welfare in recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by their late husbands in defence of the nation.

Balogun, alongside the Chief Medical Director of the Military Hospital, Benin, Brig.-Gen. Paulina Aburime, presented the items to 50 widows and six Magajiyas, who are leaders of soldiers’ wives.

He explained that the initiative aligns with the welfare-driven philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, which places priority on soldiers and their families.

“While others are celebrating and making merry, we recognise that some families paid the supreme price through their husbands. Though they are no longer with us, the Nigerian Army is here with you,” Balogun said.

He added that celebrating with the widows and their children during festive periods was a way of demonstrating that the Army and the nation still value their sacrifices.

Balogun assured that the outreach would be sustained and extended to other festive occasions, including Ramadan and Sallah celebrations.

Also speaking, Brig.-Gen. Aburime commended the brigade for organising the luncheon and empowering the widows, urging officers, soldiers and their families to continue to live in unity and love.

She noted that the Nigerian Army recognises and celebrates both Christian and Muslim festivals, adding that such gestures should be sustained and emulated.

Some of the widows who benefited from the outreach expressed gratitude to the brigade commander for the support.

One of them, Mrs Queen Obazuwa, appealed for continued assistance, noting that many widows rely on the Army’s support following the loss of their husbands.

“Please continue to help us and keep the widows in mind. We thank God for his life and say a very big thank you,” she said.