Zulum Gives ₦150m to Families of Fallen Soldiers, Announces Scholarships

Zulum Gives ₦150m to Families of Fallen Soldiers, Announces Scholarships

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has donated ₦150 million to families of three military officers killed in recent insurgent attacks, in a move that underscores ongoing support for fallen soldiers in Nigeria.

The donation, part of the Borno State government support for military families, was shared equally among the families of late Lieutenant Colonel Umar Farouq, Lieutenant Colonel Salihu Iliyasu, and Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, with each family receiving ₦50 million.

Zulum personally visited the bereaved families to deliver the cheques and express condolences. He first met the family of Lt. Col. Salihu Iliyasu, describing the late officer as a dedicated and committed servant whose sacrifices for the nation would not be forgotten. The governor then travelled to Niger State and Kano State, where he presented ₦50 million each to the families of Lt. Col. Aliyu Saidu Paiko and Lt. Col. Umar Farouq.

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Beyond the financial assistance, the governor announced additional welfare measures, including scholarships for orphaned children of slain security personnel, as part of a broader commitment to long-term family support. He also extended the gesture to families of volunteer forces who lost their lives while supporting military operations, highlighting the importance of community-based security efforts in the fight against insurgency.

Zulum reiterated that the intervention is not just symbolic but reflects a sustained policy of support for troops and their families, noting that the Borno State Government has consistently provided logistics, humanitarian assistance, and welfare packages to security personnel operating in the North-East.

He further revealed plans to visit more families of officers killed or missing in action, assuring that no affected family would be abandoned. According to him, such efforts are necessary to honour the sacrifices of those who died defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

Describing the fallen officers as gallant patriots, the governor praised their courage and dedication in the fight against insurgency, adding that their contributions would remain a lasting legacy. He also prayed for the repose of their souls and for strength for their grieving families.

The governor was accompanied by senior government officials, including Permanent Secretary of the Government House, Mustapha Ali Busguma, during the condolence visits.

Security analysts say the Zulum donation to military families is a morale-boosting intervention that reinforces public support for the armed forces and strengthens ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in Nigeria’s North-East.

Zulum Gives ₦150m to Families of Fallen Soldiers, Announces Scholarships