FG convers National honors on slain military officers, gives scholarships to children houses to families

The Federal Government of Nigeria has conferred posthumous national awards on all 17 military personnel killed last week by gunmen in the Okuama area of Niger Delta region state of Delta in the country.

 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the conferment of the honours on Wednesday during the burial of the senior officers and soldiers at the Military Cemetery, Abuja amidst sombre mood.

 The President also announced scholarships and house gifts for the children and families of the slain military personnel.

Open Television recalls that the deceased officers and soldiers were murdered by criminals in the riverine zone on March 14, 2024 while the men in uniform went on a peace mission to warring Okuama and Okoloba communities in the area.

The President awarded the honour of Members of the Order of the Niger (MON) to four officers while 13 slained soldiers were honoured with Officers of the Federal Republic (OFR) medals.

According to the President, “Each of the men now belongs to the hallowed list of service men and women who defended our country and protected their fellow Nigerians not minding the risks to their own lives.

“They have all been awarded now a posthumous National Honour. Four gallant officers have been accorded the award of Members of the Order of Niger (MON). The 13 courageous soldiers who also lost their lives have been awarded the officers of the federal republic medals,” Tinubu said.

He further noted that the gallant soldiers would be remembered as patriots who answered the call of duty and paid the ultimate price.

His words laden with emotions;

“It is now our duty to protect the families of our departed heroes. The Federal Government will provide housing in any part of our country to each of the families of the four officers and 13 soldiers that were among them.

“The Federal Government has also approved scholarships to all children of the deceased up to university level including those who are in the womb.

He further appealed to the military to ensure that all other benefits accruing to the fallen military personnel are paid within the next 90 days.