The mood at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja was sombre as the rank and file of the Nigerian Armed Forces were joined by family members and friends for the burial of 22 of the military personnel who died in combat in Niger State.

No fewer than 36 officers were killed in battle, including an air mission, on August 14, according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).

The officers’ helicopter was shot down by some insurgents in the Zungeru area of Niger State.

Some of the deceased officers had already been buried by their various families, remaining the 22 being that will be buried today, Friday.

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other service chiefs are currently at the cemetery.

Details later…