(NAN)Brig.-Gen Ahmed Balogun of the Nigerian Army in Benin has said that the distribution of Christmas food and monetary gifts to families of fallen officers was aimed at expressing gratitude. Balogun noted that the gifts served as a reminder to the widows of fallen soldiers that the Nigerian Army had not forgotten the sacrifices of their late husbands, made in defence of their fatherland. Balogun noted that the initiative aligned with the idea of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, which prioritises the welfare of soldiers and their families. “We are here to put soldiers first and to bring the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy to life by celebrating and identifying with our soldiers and their families during this Christmas season,” he said. She urged officers, soldiers and their families to continue to live in unity and love, noting that the Nigerian Army recognises and celebrates both Christian and Muslim festivals.

Source: Punch December 27, 2025 13:53 UTC