Families of soldiers killed in recent insurgency battles in Nigeria’s North-East are calling on the Federal Government to stop the ongoing bloodshed and improve the welfare of military personnel and their families.
Following Monday’s attack on a military base in Marte, Borno State, which resulted in five soldier fatalities, relatives of the fallen have mourned their loss and urged the government to take decisive action.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, stated, “Troops of the AFN in Marte came under attack on Monday, 12 May 2025, around 3am.
However, the troops were able to repel the terrorists after a fierce gun battle, with a large number of terrorists neutralised while others escaped with bullet wounds.”
Despite the Defence Headquarters’ claims, multiple attacks this year have taken the lives of numerous soldiers across Borno and Yobe States. Widows and family members express frustration over poor military welfare and delayed compensation.
A widow whose husband died in Borno lamented, “The soldiers were facing terrorists without proper weapons and other necessities. They lacked decent shelter and food. Their salary is also poor. The government is wasting the lives of innocent people fighting the terrorists.”
The Coordinator of the Military Widows’ Association in Kebbi State, Asma’u Noma, highlighted the neglect faced by families of fallen soldiers: “A lot of them are wallowing in poverty and hunger… If the government continues to turn a blind eye to the plight of military widows, no parent will allow their son to join the army.”
Serving soldiers’ families have also voiced concerns about the lack of proper arms and support. A mother of a soldier stationed in Yobe said, “We want our children to be protected, not sacrificed for nothing.”
Former military personnel cited technological gaps and logistics challenges as factors aiding insurgents. Brigadier General Yusuf Ladan (retd.) urged, “The military must enhance its technological capabilities in all engagements.”
A retired army colonel added, “The government must boost the morale of troops by improving their welfare and providing adequate support… Without these reforms, the future of the military looks bleak, and the nation’s security hangs in the balance.”
The families’ plea is clear: urgent government action is needed to end insecurity, support soldiers, and care for those who sacrifice everything.
