Gov Zulum donates N150million to families of slain military officers

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno has donated N150 million to the families of three military officers killed in recent attacks in the state.

The donation was made as part of the state government’s support to families of security personnel involved in counter-insurgency operations.

According to the governor, the gesture also extends to families of volunteer forces killed in action, including scholarship support for their orphaned children.

Zulum on Wednesday visited the families of late Lieutenant Colonel Umar Farouq, Lieutenant Colonel Salihu Iliyasu, and Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko.

The governor said: “On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

“Late Iliyasu was a dedicated and committed servant of the nation whose contributions will not be forgotten.”

The governor presented a cheque of N50 million to the family.

Zulum later travelled to Niger State and Kano State where he presented cheques of N50 million each to the families of Aliyu Saidu Paiko and Umar Farouq.

He commended the slain officers for what he described as their gallantry and sacrifice in the fight against insurgency.

The governor also announced plans to visit the families of other officers killed or missing in action during ongoing military operations.

He said the Borno government remains committed to supporting families of security personnel who died defending the country.

Zulum prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked God to grant their families the strength to bear the loss.

The governor was accompanied by Mustapha Ali Busguma, permanent secretary of the government house; and other officials of his administration.