“Do not lose heart, do not be discouraged”, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said in his condolence to the families of “gallant” soldiers who made the “ultimate sacrifice” in defending Nigeria against insurgents in Borno State.
The President described the “counterattack” by the insurgents as “a sign of desperation”.
He assured via a statement on X, the Nigerian government “will never forget their sacrifices”.
In his condolence message, President Tinubu wrote: “From the reports I have received, our armed forces have been conducting sustained, intense land and air offensives against the insurgents, neutralising many terrorist fighters and commanders. The insurgents’ counterattack is a sign of desperation.
“I extend my condolences to the families of our gallant soldiers, led by Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of our country in Borno State.
“The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain. Because of the courage and dedication of our troops on the frontline, our resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of violence across Nigeria is stronger than ever.”
The President encouraged the soldiers to not relent in their service to the country, saying, the government will always support the Armed Forces; and make available more of the equipments needed to defeat insurgency, as well as, ensure the welfare of all soldiers who put their lives on the line for the safety of Nigeria.
Also, the President pleaded with all Nigerians and the media to be supportive of the Military in their “relentless” fight against “insurgency and banditry”.
He also called on Nigerians to cease “celebrating attacks against our troops” as he described the soldiers as “heroes”.
President Tinubu wrote: “I urge the Military High Command and our troops in all theatres of operation: Do not lose heart, do not be weary, do not be discouraged.
“Our officers and men should continue to serve with honour, courage, and patriotism. The government will always stand by the Armed Forces, provide more of the equipment needed and ensure the welfare of all who risk their lives for our safety.
“I urge Nigerians and the media to continue to support our Military in their relentless battle against insurgency and banditry. We should desist from celebrating or condoning the attacks against our troops. These soldiers are our heroes; unforgettable and irreplaceable.”
Tinubu said, his administration will not stop to collaborate with the government of Borno State to ensure “total victory and lasting peace” is achieved.
President Tinubu further wrote: “My condolences also go to the government and people of Borno State. The Federal Government will continue to work with the state government to achieve total victory and lasting peace.”
