By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has pledged full scholarships for the children of eight Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members who lost their lives in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack along the Dikwa–Marte Road.
Governor Zulum made the announcement on Thursday during a condolence visit to the families of the fallen heroes in the Fezzan ward of Maiduguri.
The CJTF members were killed on Tuesday when their vehicle hit an IED planted by insurgents. Describing them as martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of their communities, Zulum assured their families that their bravery would never be forgotten.
In addition to the scholarship pledge, the governor announced immediate financial support of ₦5 million for each bereaved family to help cater to their urgent needs.
“I want to announce an initial assistance of ₦5 million to each family to take care of their immediate needs. The Borno State Government will also provide full scholarship to the children of the deceased CJTF members. For those without children, we will extend support to other family members,” Zulum said.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and encouraged the families to remain strong in the face of their loss.
The governor was accompanied by the Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira; APC State Chairman, Bello Ayuba; Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mustapha Ali Busuguma, and other senior government officials.
