President Bola Tinubu has conferred national posthumous awards on the 17 military personnel killed in the Okuama area of Delta State on March 14.
Speaking at the funeral of the officers and soldiers at the Military Cemetery, Abuja, today March 27, the President also announced scholarships and house gifts for the children and families of the slain military personnel.
Four of the slain officers were awarded the honour of Members of the Order of the Niger (MON) while 13 slain soldiers were honoured with Officers of the Federal Republic medals.
“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,” President Tinubu said
Speaking further, the President said the gallant soldiers would be remembered as patriots who answered the call of duty and paid the ultimate price.
“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. The military we appeal to you to within the next 90 days to ensure that all benefits of the departed are paid,” the President.