Group calls on religious leaders to back soldiers with prayers

The National Inter-Faith and Religious Organisation for Peace (NIFROP) has asked religious groups to support troops with prayers.

At a press conference addressed by Sunday Garuba, its president, the body said Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff, and his men deserve prayers for their “immeasurable sacrifices for the safety and security of the nation”.

Garuba said army’s patriotism came to the fore during end of the year when it seemed as though the Boko Haram insurgents were on the rise again.

“We thank God that the Nigerian Army, as usual, rose to the task and chased the terrorists and bandits back to the pit of hell from whence they came,” he said.

“The damage the Nigerian troops inflicted on the terrorists in the past year might have been underreported but patriotic citizens that are interested in the truth are still able to read between the lines to appreciate what has been done on their behalf.

“It is on this note that we identify with troops that have made great sacrifices for the safety and security of the nation, especially those that laid down their lives for their country.

“It is reassuring that the military has proven that the sacrifices of these ones were not in vain as they had shown the terrorists that the army of a sovereign nation is not to be toyed with by terrorists even when they have foreign support.

“The Nigerian Army has triumphed against the evil support that the terrorists enjoy from organizations that masquerade as good when the essence of their work reeks of evil.

“It is on this note that we salute the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Buratai. We commend the efforts of the Nigerian troops fighting Boko Haram under the COAS’ direction. The superlative delivery of valour could not have been possible without the commitment of the commander, his officers and troops.”

The group vowed to continue supporting the army in any way whatsoever.