General Tukur Buratai, Chief of
Army
General Tukur Buratai, Chief of
Army Staff
Nigerian Army Promotes Private Bala for Exceptional
Gallantry
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai
has promoted Private Illyasu Bala to the rank of Lance Corporal for
exceptional courage and gallantry in the war against Boko Haram in
the Lake Chad Area.
It would be recalled that in the last couple of weeks troops
location in Mallam Fatori has been under repeated attacks by Boko
Haram Terrorists. However, on each of those occasions, troops have
robustly defended their location, counter – attacked and inflicted
heavy losses in personnel and equipment on Boko Haram.
The maiden visit of the new Force Commander, Multinational Joint
Task Force (MNJTF), Major General Ibrahim Manu Ibrahim, to troops
in the front line, therefore, provided the opportunity to reward
the gallant soldier.
Recommending Private Illyasu Bala to the Force Commander for
automatic promotion, the Commanding Officer 118 Task Force
Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Murtala Aminu said “Private Illyasu
Bala who is only 3 years in service has been exemplary, courageous
and a source of inspiration to his peers. His gallantry in the face
of the enemy has been exceptional”. Consequently, on the authority
of the Chief of Army Staff, the Force Commander promoted and
decorated the soldier to the admiration and applause of the entire
battalion.
Speaking during an address to officers and soldiers, Major
General Yusuf commended them for their courage and services to
their fatherland. “You have made everyone proud and other locations
are being urged to emulate the Mallam Fatori spirit”, Major General
Yusuf added.He emphasized the need for collaboration between
Nigerian and Nigerien forces fighting in Bosso – Mallam Fatori axis
in order to benefit from the experiences and expertise of each
other.
As a morale booster and mark of appreciation for their services
and patriotism, the Force Commander decorated commanders, some
officers and soldiers with Operation YANCIN TAFKI medal.
Colonel Timothy Antigha
Chief of Military Public Information
MNJTF
N’Djamena, Chad