Zulum Donates ₦50m to Family of Fallen Army Officer, Reaffirms Support for Troops

Zulum Donates ₦50m to Family of Fallen Army Officer, Reaffirms Support for Troops

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has donated ₦50 million to the family of a slain Nigerian Army officer, Lieutenant Colonel O.C. Okolo, who died in a February 16, 2026, attack by insurgents in the Mandaragirau community, Biu Local Government Area.

The gesture, announced at a funeral service held on April 10 in Obinofia-Ndiuno, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, is part of the governor’s continued support for military personnel and their families affected by the ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq (retd), Mr Zulum said the state government remains committed to standing by families of fallen soldiers.

“The state government will continue to support families of officers and men who paid the supreme price in defending our nation and its territorial integrity,” he said.

The governor also assured that similar visits and interventions would be extended to families of other personnel who have been killed or declared missing in action in operations across the Sambisa Forest and the Lake Chad region.

Mr. Zulum had earlier approved a ₦150 million support package for the families of three military officers who died in separate attacks in border communities around Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.

Describing the late officer as courageous and dedicated, the governor expressed condolences to the bereaved family.

“Lt. Col. O.C. Okolo was a gallant, committed officer whose contributions to the nation will not be forgotten,” he said. “My heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends and colleagues over this painful loss.”

He also prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and for strength for the family to bear the loss.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Prof. Stanley Okolo appreciated the governor’s support and solidarity.

“The family members were particularly touched by the cash donation and the delegation sent from Maiduguri to attend the funeral service despite the short notice,” he said.

He further commended the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding the 82nd Division for sending representatives to honour the late officer.

The funeral was attended by senior military officers, including representatives of the Chief of Army Staff and the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai, as well as members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and members of the host community.