Boko Haram: Zulum donates N30m to family of slain army officer, Lt. Col. Alari
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has donated N30 million to the family of the late Army Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Ebisingha Alari, who lost his life in the ongoing battle against Boko Haram insurgents in the Timbuktu Triangle recently.
The donation was made personally to the wife of the late officer by the Governor on Saturday in Maiduguri.
Lt. Col. T.E. Alari, a fearless leader and defender of the nation was killed by insurgents on January 24, 2025.
Alari was one such a gallant officer who stood as a bulwark against terror, giving his life so others might live in peace.
As the Commanding Officer of the 149 Battalion, Lt. Col. Alari, was a nightmare to insurgents. His resolute determination and strategic brilliance in combat had dealt devastating blows to the ranks of ISWAP, earning him a reputation as a fearless leader who did not shy away from leading from the front. His name struck fear into the hearts of terrorists, and his presence on the battlefield inspired confidence among his troops.
On Jan. 24, 2025, however, while leading an operation in the Timbuktu Triangle, a bastion of terrorist activity in Damboa, he once again demonstrated the true essence of leadership. Under his command, the 149 Battalion had successfully disrupted insurgent strongholds, neutralizing scores of terrorists and forcing them into retreat. But in a desperate last ditch effort, ISWAP insurgents deployed a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) against his troops.
The VBIED was intercepted and destroyed by the troops, but the shrapnel from the explosion tragically took the lives of those closest to the blast, including Lt. Col. Alari, who, as always, was at the front, leading his men. Even in the face of certain death, his bravery remained unwavering a true testament to his character.
Lt. Col. Alari was not just a soldier; he was a protector, a mentor, and a patriot. His relentless pursuit of justice and his commitment to the safety of his country will forever be remembered. He epitomized the qualities of a selfless leader always prioritizing the wellbeing of his troops and the mission above his own safety.
Meanwhile, Zulum extended his condolences to the family of the late Colonel and all others who have lost their lives fighting to restore peace in Borno State.
“Yesterday, we sent a high-level state government delegation to the funeral. However, I felt the need to personally extend my condolences on behalf of the government and people of the state,” Zulum said.
He added,” Let me also extend my condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in the cause of the fight against terrorism in Borno and all parts of the northeast.
“We are also presenting a token donation of N30m for his immediate family to purchase a house because I was told that Lt Col Alari doesn’t own a personal house. I want to assure you that apart from this, we will continue to offer support to you and the families of our fallen heroes who have put their lives in defence of our country.” Zulum stated.
The presentation was made in the presence of the Theatre Commander Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, Sector 2 Commander, and Major General Chieiebere Ejike. Also present are Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan and House of Representatives members Engr Bukar Talba and Ahmed Jaha.
Other State government officials who attended the presentation include the Deputy Chief of Staff, Engr Babagana Malumbe; Commissioners; Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mustapha Ali Busuguma; Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Brigadier Gen. Abdullahi Sabi Ishaq (rtd); and Chairman of Damboa Local Government, Ali Mohammed Kauji among other senior officers.
