The concerned group of the Nigerians in Diaspora on security in the United Kingdom has pledged to work with the Nigerian military through intelligence gathering and development of software needed in its operations in the North East. The group, led by the Chairperson House of Representative Committee on Diaspora matters, Honourable Barrister Rita Orji made this pledge at the Defence Headquarters Abuja, during the presentation of an award to the Chief of Defence Staff General Gabriel Olonisakin.

Honourable Orji stated that the award was given to the CDS in appreciation of the gallantry and doggedness of the military in keeping the nation united despite predictions of a break-up Nigeria before the 2015 general election. She noted that Nigerians in Diaspora acknowledged the sacrifices the members of Armed Forces are rendering towards keeping Nigeria safe from insurgency and insecurity. The award of gallantry presented to the Chief of Defence Staff, according to Honourable Barrister Orji, was to say thank you to the members of Armed Forces through the CDS so as to spur the military to do more in this noble endeavour.

Receiving the award, General Olonisakin expressed appreciation to the group for identifying with the military, especially at this trying period in our nation’s history. He stated that the award was for the Nigerian military, both the dead and the living, as well as members of their families who also bear the brunt of the insecurity in the North East and other parts of the country.

General Olonisakin noted that terrorism is a global phenomenon and therefore urged Nigerians in diaspora and international community to rise up to challenge and join hands to wage war against insurgency and terrorism. Present at the occasion, apart from the group of Nigerians in diaspora, are some members of the House of Rep Committee on diaspora and Principal Staff Officers of the Defence Headquarters.