….Reaffirms Support for Late Military Heroes
By Sam Kayode
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has donated ₦50 million to the family of the late Lt. Col. OC Okolo, who lost his life during a Boko Haram attack at Mandaragirau in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State on 16 February 2026.
The Governor recently made a similar intervention on behalf of the government, donating ₦150 million to the families of three military officers who died in separate attacks across the state.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting families of officers and men who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.
He also assured that he would continue to visit families of other personnel killed or declared missing in action in the ongoing military operations.
The Governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq (Rtd), made the donation during the funeral service held in Obinofia Ndiuno, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State on 10 April 2026.
The cash donation was presented on behalf of the Borno State Government as part of Governor Zulum’s sustained support to families of fallen heroes and those wounded in action in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaigns by the federal government.
Governor Zulum, on behalf of the government and people of Borno State, extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
“My heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends and colleagues of Lt. Col Okolo on his painful demise,” Zulum said.
“Lt Col OC Okolo was a gallant, dedicated and committed officer of the nation whose contributions will not be forgotten.”
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for God to grant his family the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss.
Responding on behalf of the family, Prof. Stanley Okolo expressed deep appreciation to Governor Zulum for the compassion and solidarity shown.
“The family members were particularly touched with the cash donation of N50m and delegation sent from Maiduguri to attend the funeral service despite the short notice,” Stanley stated.
He also commended the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, for sending representatives.
The funeral service was attended by the representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Brigadier General Suru; the Task Force Commander, 25 Brigade, Brigadier General Omoke, who represented the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI; members of NAOWA; and members of the host community.
