Defence

THE Northern Youths Coalition (NYC) has congratulated the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor, on the award of national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).

The coalition, in a statement by its President Ishyaku Bello and Secretary, Gaius Gyang, on Sunday in Abuja, said the award was well deserved.

The group said that Irabor had distinguished himself with his total commitment to the cause of a peaceful Nigeria.

According to the coalition, Irabor has shown frankness, dedication and sincerity in the task of heading the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

It said the recent release of the remaining 23 abducted Abuja-Kaduna train attack victims was a testimony that the armed forces under Irabor was committed to the protection of lives of the citizens.

“We are gladden that our brothers and sisters who were abducted are now back home. Our Armed Forces refused to give in and give up in their rescue.

“Importantly, they came out alive from the den of their abductors which is historical when we have almost given up that they might be casualties in securing their release,” the group said.

The coalition said that insecurity had taken the North several years backward, adding that it was a risk to make meaningful economic investment in the Northern region presently.

According to it, North cannot continue like this.

The group said the gradual return of business activities in the North-East was a welcome development, attributing it to efforts of the military.

“We appeal to our people in that region to cooperate with the Armed Forces of Nigeria to ensure life return to normal and means of livelihood are restored.

“We also appeal to the insurgents to lay down arms, saying the military has shown that unrepentant criminals will not have a breathing space,” they added. (NAN)

KN

Tags: Gen. Lucky Irabor Ishyaku Bello