By Umar Sani Daura
Nigeria is bleeding. The brutal killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba by ISWAP terrorists in Borno State, the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi, and the execution of a school vice principal have shaken the nation to its core. These tragedies are not isolated—they are symptoms of a deeper crisis that threatens the morale of our armed forces, the confidence of citizens, and the sovereignty of the nation itself.
While the death of a general rightly commands headlines, countless junior officers and rank-and-file soldiers have died in silence. Their names are absent from the news, their families left without recognition, and their sacrifices unacknowledged. As Daily Nigerian observed, “bravery is common, sacrifice is routine, and tragedy often arrives without warning”.
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When soldiers are injured, many are taken to the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna, where reports suggest inadequate care despite the army’s vast budget. Families of fallen heroes often struggle without housing, scholarships, or life assurance policies. This neglect discourages young men and women from joining the force and leaves serving officers demoralized.
To restore morale and encourage enlistment, the presidency must urgently provide:
– Recognition: Public acknowledgment of fallen heroes through memorials and annual remembrance events.
– Housing: Decent, secure housing for serving officers and their families.
– Scholarships: Educational support for children of fallen or injured soldiers.
– Healthcare: Comprehensive medical coverage, including psychological support for widows and children.
– Life Assurance Policies: Transparent insurance schemes guaranteeing financial stability for families.
– Allowances & Incentives: Risk allowances that reflect the dangers of service, coupled with prompt pensions.
Such measures are not luxuries; they are essential motivations. They encourage young men and women to join the force, knowing their families will not be abandoned if the worst happens.
Pundits are of the view that these attacks carry political undertones. Former Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso warned that Nigeria faces “a dangerous escalation of insecurity” and urged urgent federal action. Critics argue that the targeting of military officers and schools is designed to ridicule the Tinubu administration ahead of its reelection bid. Silence from the presidency emboldens adversaries. Speaking is not enough; decisive action is required to prove Nigeria can resolve its internal crises without foreign intervention.
Failure to act decisively risks not only insecurity but also internal sabotage. Disgruntled officers, when disregarded and demoralized, can become fertile ground for military ambition—threatening Nigeria’s hard-earned democracy.
The presidency must act now:
– Institutionalize recognition and reward for gallant soldiers.
– Strengthen welfare systems with housing, scholarships, and life assurance policies.
– Provide world-class medical care, even abroad if necessary, for injured soldiers.
– Coordinate security apparatus to prevent sabotage and ensure unity of command.
– Invest in morale-building measures, from improved allowances to transparent promotions.
– Demonstrate decisive leadership, proving Nigeria can confront insecurity head-on.
Nigeria stands at a dangerous crossroads. The killing of a general and the abduction of schoolchildren are not just tragedies; they are warnings. If morale among soldiers continues to collapse, the nation risks internal sabotage and threats to democracy itself.
The presidency must rise above rhetoric and act decisively. Reward the gallant, care for the wounded, honor the fallen, and restore confidence in Nigeria’s ability to defend itself. Photo credit: African Argument
