Northern youths congratulate CDS on national honour 

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The recent award received by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. LEO Irabor has been widely commended by various groups across the country.

Northern Youths Coalition (NYC) who

joined other Nigerians in commending the feat of the CDS, congratulated him for the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).

NYC said the CDS has distinguished himself by championing the fight against insurgency to ensure a peaceful Nigeria.

A statement issued on Sunday by the coalition said Gen. Irabor has shown frankness, dedication and sincerity in the task of heading the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

It said recent release of the abducted Abuja- Kaduna train passengers is a testimony that the Armed Forces under Gen. Irabor is committed to the protection of lives of the citizens.

According to the group, “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 abducters. This is historical. We have almost given up that they may be casualties in securing their release.

The statement added that insecurity has taken the North several years backward, saying that the gallantry of the military under the CDS will ensure total victory for the country.

“Presently, it is a risk to make meaningful economic investment in the Northern region. We cannot continue like this.

The Youths said the gradual return of business activities in the North-East is a welcome development, attributing it to efforts of the AFN.

“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,” the Coalition added.