By Ali Mohammed Zanna, (9NEWS NIGERIA, BORNO STATE)
The audience couldn’t hold back their tears while they listening to a young girl, Fatima Umar, while she pays a tribute to her late father.
The audience, comprising of military men and women, wounded soldiers, government officials, journalists and other guests were driven to an emotional journey through Fatima’s words.
A daughter of a fallen hero, Fatima gave the tribute in an end of the year concert in Maiduguri, organized by the Nigerian Military at Maimalari Barracks.
Her father, Sgt Umar Ibrahim was a late military man who pays the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the northeast region.
“My father was a great soldier; how I wish he were here to celebrate with us,” Fatima expressed emotionally.
“For all the provisions you have been giving us, may God continue to bless you. To the soldiers in the battlefield, may God protect you all,” she added.
The event was organized by the Tribute to Our Troops (TTOT) Foundation, a nonprofit organization, in collaboration with the 7 Division and Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai.
Featuring performances by comedians and musical artists from Lagos, Delta, and Borno, the event night was filled with mixed emotions, both tears and celebration, as families of wounded soldiers expressed gratitude for the recognition of their loved ones’ sacrifices.
During the program, Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, offered Fatima a personal donation of N500,000 and N100,000 each to four other girls who shared heartfelt tributes to their parents who also died on the frontlines.
The governor also donated N300 million to the TTOT Foundation.
Represented by the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, Governor Zulum urged the foundation to utilize part of the donation to support wounded soldiers residing in Maiduguri.
While responding, the founder of TTOT Foundation, Princess Olivia Adom, expressed gratitude to the military and Borno State government for their unwavering support.
She encouraged Nigerians to not relent in appreciating the sacrifices made by armed forces in the country.
“To every soldier across Nigeria, your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. Nigerians are beginning to understand your selflessness and dedication. You are among the few who have chosen to defend the dignity of this nation, and your bravery keeps us united,” she said.
Adom urged citizens to show gratitude, not just in words but through actions that reflect national appreciation to families of fallen heroes.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, Maj-Gen. AGL Haruna, emphasized that the event aimed to honor fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price for national peace and stability.
He noted that the live broadcast of the concert was intended to help the public better understand the military’s role and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
