The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has described the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 others, who died in the Friday plane crash, as worthy and dedicated soldiers.
The forum in a statement issued by its Chairman, Gov. Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, in Abuja on Saturday, said it received the news of the death with shock and utter disbelief.
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It stated that the officers devotedly fought for Nigeria on the battlefield.
Attahiru, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff on Jan. 26 by President Muhammadu Buhari, died on Friday along with 10 others in a plane crash at the Kaunda International Airport.
Fayemi described Attahiru as an exemplary soldier whose zeal, dedication and professionalism inspired his men in the ongoing war against terrorism and to secure the peace and stability of the nation.
“Already, all well-meaning Nigerians are enjoying a renewed confidence in the army while the soldiers themselves are showing appreciation for their leaderships’ encouraging impetus in boosting their morale on the battlefields,’’ he stated.
Fayemi said the governors’ thoughts were with the families of the entire crew members and others on the entourage of the army chief.
“They were worthy and dedicated soldiers, who devotedly fought for our country on the battlefield.
“May the souls of these heroes rest in peace.
“As Governors, we will miss the gallant soldiers.’’
The Forum Chairman prayed for the repose of their gentle souls and prayed Allah to grant then Jinnatul Fiddausi.
He expressed the hope that their contributions to bringing peace back to the lives of the people will not go in vain.
“We also pray Allah (SWT) to grant late Attahiru’s family, and the families of all involved, the fortitude to bear the great loss to the country at large.’’
NAN