01/08/2025
CONGRATULATIONS TO ME
Today marks the end of my active service in the Nigerian Army and a new beginning as an ex-soldier, a veteran, and a civilian. Thanks to the Almighty God for giving me this special grace. I'm not worthy of it, but through His mercy and grace, I made it.
It all began in August 2012 when I was enlisted into the Nigerian Army and then posted to 101SF Bn as an infantry soldier, where I was immediately launched into operations in the Northeast, Borno State, specifically Operation Zaman Lafiya and Lafiya Dole. Three years later, I was awarded two operational medals and then sent to Niger State, Birnin Gwari, for clearance operations (against cattle rustlers/herdsmen). From there, I went to Zamfara State for another clearance operation and in the latter part of the year, I was sent to Kaduna State for Operation Harbin Kunama in southern Kaduna, and then to Taraba State for another clearance operation, followed by Adamawa State for another clearance operation, and lastly, Benue State for Operation Whirl Stroke. This made it eight successful operations that I participated in during my time in the Nigerian Army. As a non Commissioned Officer, I rose from the rank of a Private Soldier(Pte) to a Lance Corporal (Cpl) and finally to the rank of Corporal (Cpl) As a Section commander, I believed I was a good commander through my Officer in Command(OC) commendations, my company quarter Master (CSM) and Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) recommendations coupled with my men who are always at high spirits whenever I lead them for an operation.
During all these operations, I learnt about different cultures, religions, and other valuable experiences. In fact, I’m made and I can boldly say that Nigeria is a blessed country. My survival in all these operations wasn't in my power but God's grace. We always win our battles, but we also lose men. Rest in peace to all my buddies who paid the ultimate price. Nigerians will never forget your sacrifices.
Thanks to my mother, Mrs. Gloria Nnamani, who stood by me through thick and thin, you are a virtuous woman, a woman of valor. To my sister, Oluchi Onuh (my big sister), I'm forever grateful, and to the rest of the people who contributed to my progress in one way or the other, I'm grateful too. May the souls of my best friend, late Maduako Ifeanyichukwu Gospel, who paid the ultimate price in Maiduguri in 2013, and other soldiers who lost their lives, rest in peace. Amen. God, I'm grateful.
SHALOM