The air about the National Military Cemetery in FCT Abuja was sombre and restrained as the rank and file of the Nigerian Armed Forces were joined by the family members and friends, for the final rites of some of the military personnel who were killed in combat in Niger State.
Not less than 36 serving officers were slain in battle, including in an air mission in August 14 according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).
Channels Tv had reported that the rank and file of the Nigerian Armed Forces were present, as well as the families of the deceased.
The funeral commenced with the arrival of Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, who came in at about 9:46 am. Also in attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and the several other service chiefs.
Reports from Channels News Television had revealed that some of the deceased officers had already been buried by their families, prior to today’s ceremony.