Governor Zulum Presents ₦50 Million to Family of Late Lieutenant Colonel in Borno
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has made a significant gesture of support by donating the sum of ₦50 million to the family of the late Lieutenant Colonel O.C. Okolo. The officer lost his life in a Boko Haram attack on the Mandaragirau community in Biu Local Government Council on February 16, 2026. This donation underscores the governor's ongoing commitment to assisting the families of military personnel who have sacrificed their lives in defense of the nation.
Continued Support for Military Families
Governor Zulum recently demonstrated similar compassion by presenting ₦150 million to the families of three other military officers who died in separate attacks in communities bordering Cameroon, Chad, and Niger within the Lake Chad region. Reaffirming his administration's dedication to the Nigerian Armed Forces during a statement in Maiduguri on Saturday, Zulum emphasized, "The state government will continue to support families of officers and men who paid the supreme price in defending our nation and its territorial integrity." He further assured that he would continue to visit families of other military personnel killed or declared missing in action amid the ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Sambisa Forest and the Lake Chad region.
Funeral Service and Donation Details
The donation was made on April 10, 2026, at the funeral service held in Obinofia-Ndiuno, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State. Represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq (retired), Governor Zulum presented the ₦50 million cash donation on behalf of the Borno State Government. This act is part of the governor's continuous support for families of fallen heroes and wounded soldiers involved in counter-insurgency efforts. On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, Zulum extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, stating, "My heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends, and colleagues of Lt. Col Okolo on his painful demise. Lt. Col O.C. Okolo was a gallant, dedicated, and committed officer of the nation, whose enormous contributions will not be forgotten." He also prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for God to grant his family the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
Family Appreciation and Attendees
Speaking on behalf of the family, Professor 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 ₦50 million and the delegation sent from Maiduguri to attend the funeral service despite the short notice," stated Stanley. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding of the 82 Division for sending their representatives to the funeral. The service was attended by notable figures, including the representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Brigadier General G.A. Suru; the Task Force Commander of the 25 Brigade, Brigadier General I.P. Omoke, who represented the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI; members of the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA); and members of the host community.
