A historic tribute to the military contributions of Southern Kaduna took place on Saturday, as dignitaries, veterans, scholars, and community members gathered at the Gwamna Awan Memorial Hall in Kagoro, Kaura Local Government Area, for the public presentation and launch of the book, “Professionalism and Service to Fatherland: The Military Heroes of Southern Kaduna.”
Authored by Pastor Agat Chocho Nkut, the book chronicles the stories of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism demonstrated by military officers from the region who have served Nigeria across decades of national and international missions.
The event attracted a distinguished audience, including representatives from the highest echelons of the military, such as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
In their goodwill messages, both representatives commended the initiative as a crucial documentation of the contributions made by Southern Kaduna’s military veterans, many of whom have participated in various peacekeeping missions and counter-insurgency operations.
Representing Governor Uba Sani at the event, Sir James Kanyip, PhD, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, described the book as a “monument in ink”—a testament to duty and a living archive of honour.
He encouraged retired military officers to remain engaged in nation-building, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to citizen involvement and partnership with veterans to foster peace and security within the state.
Mr. Jerry Adams, the Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), also addressed the gathering. He praised the book as a powerful reminder of the region’s rich history of service and underscored the importance of the wisdom and leadership of retired officers, particularly as Southern Kaduna continues to grapple with security challenges.
Renowned academic Professor Ayuba Kwasau, who reviewed the 466-page book, highlighted its historical depth and narrative strength. He urged young Nigerians to draw inspiration from the documented sacrifices of the veterans and their unwavering commitment to national unity and service.
In an interview with Salama News, the book’s author, Pastor Agat Chocho Nkut, dedicated the work to the unsung heroes of Southern Kaduna, whose sweat, blood, and sacrifices have shaped Nigeria’s military history. He expressed his intention for the book to preserve the legacies of these heroes for future generations while fostering a greater understanding of Southern Kaduna’s role in nation-building.
Veterans in attendance expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to continue contributing to regional peace efforts.
The event culminated in a symbolic unveiling of the book, followed by heartfelt tributes from serving and retired military personnel, scholars, and community leaders.
