Soldiers on National Duty Encouraged to Focus on Their Responsibilities Effectively
By Yahaya Zakka.
Soldiers serving on national duty have been urged to prioritize their responsibilities wherever they are, without dwelling on their children at home.
Brigadier General Muhammed Umar Jibo, Brigade Commander of the 31 Field Artillery, offered these words of encouragement during the inaugural Christmas Children’s Party organized by the 31 Artillery Brigade at the Artillery Regiment parade ground in Minna.
In his address, Brigadier General Umar Jibo explained that this was the first of its kind—a celebration aimed at supporting and uplifting the children of soldiers on duty nationwide.
He emphasized that the event seeks to make the children feel connected to their parents, often absent due to duty, by providing school supplies such as bags, lunchboxes, and exercise books to motivate them to focus on their studies.
He called on soldiers posted in Maiduguri and other parts of the country to remain committed to their duties, stating, “As a commander, it is my responsibility to bring the children together so they can experience a sense of fatherly belonging, helping them not feel the absence of their parents.”
The children enjoyed the festivities, which included music, gifts, and other activities intended to make their Christmas memorable.
Brigadier General Umar Jibo also urged the children to dedicate themselves to their studies and strive to become better individuals for the future.
The special guest at the event, the Commissioner of Homeland Security, Barr. Maurice Magaji, praised the Commander of the 31 Artillery for organizing such a large event for the children.
Barr. Magaji stated that with this initiative, soldiers on the front lines will not have to worry about their families back home, as they have been taken care of.
However, it is also important to remember that when responsible individuals are tasked with protecting us, they also have a duty to look after those who serve. This means caring for their children while they are on duty.
Barr. Magaji further praised the Commander for this remarkable act of compassionate cooperation with the Niger state government, which is expected to continue as it has been.
He noted that it’s crucial to make sure these soldiers know they are loved and cared for. Of course, their families, who remain home while their loved ones serve, would also be reassured to know they are being looked after.
