The importance of stable family support to the success of Nigeria’s military operations against insecurity has been strongly emphasized.
Speaking on Saturday at the Family and Community Day activities held at the Mogadishu Military Cantonment, the wife of the Minister of Defence, Lilian Musa, said soldiers on the frontlines require strong and supportive homes to perform optimally in the defence of the nation.
The event formed part of activities marking the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Mrs Musa noted that families of military personnel play a critical role by constantly praying for the safety and protection of their loved ones deployed to conflict zones, while also providing emotional and moral support essential to operational effectiveness.
With the theme “Celebrating the Strength Behind Our Soldiers,” she stated that national security extends beyond the battlefield to the home front.
According to her, “There are family members who wait with courage and pray fervently for our soldiers. National strength is not built on ammunition alone, but also on the love and support that comes from home.”
She assured participants that the sacrifices of Nigerian military personnel would never be forgotten, describing the event as a collective commitment to continually support the armed forces.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the wife of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mrs Hassana Shalengwa, commended the Ministry for organizing the programme.
She recalled the sacrifices made by soldiers in preserving Nigeria’s unity and security, and appreciated guests for attending the celebration.
Highlights of the event included tug-of-war competitions, egg and sack races, as well as the release of balloons symbolizing peace and unity, alongside several other recreational activities designed to strengthen bonds within the military community.
